Question

Discuss different categories of petty corruption, and explain how each category provides bribe payers illegally favorable treatment. Be sure to discuss examples of each category, referring to how both citizens and firms are involved in petty corruption.

Equalizing Supply and Demand

Providing Incentive Bonuses

Reducing Costs (inefficiencies)

Enabling Criminal Actions

Answer 1

There are different categories of petty corruption which citizens and the private sector face on a daily basis where people misuse public/private offices for selfish gains in unethical ways. These practices generally relate to small amounts and involve junior officials.

Bribes: Is a form of corruption where individuals/firms offer money or favors to influence an official/business person to make a decision in their favour.

Nepotism: Common practice where a person in power favours relatives or close friends for positions even when more qualified people are available.

Clientelism: Characterized by relationships where the relatively more rich/powerful people offer relatively powerless and poor people with benefits in exchange for votes.

Fraud: Occurs when people cheat through deceit and manipulation by distorting information/facts.