Corruption and the Secret of Law

This insightful volume examines the complex relationship between law and corruption, revealing how they are interconnected. Corruption and the Secret of Law offers critical perspectives from global case studies.

In Corruption and the Secret of Law, the authors provide a critical anthropological perspective that explores the intricate relationship between corruption and law. This volume challenges the conventional view that positions corruption as an absolute evil, arguing instead that it is deeply intertwined with state power and legal frameworks. By examining various case studies from around the globe, including countries such as Burundi, China, and Mexico, the authors reveal how the boundaries between lawful governance and corrupt practices are often blurred.

The book critiques the normative good governance agenda promoted by influential institutions like Transparency International and the World Bank. It posits that these anti-corruption initiatives often overlook the nuanced realities of how corruption operates within legal systems. By presenting a more complex understanding of this relationship, Corruption and the Secret of Law encourages readers to reconsider the simplistic dichotomy of good versus evil in governance.

Through its comprehensive analysis, this volume serves as a valuable resource for students, researchers, and policymakers alike. By drawing on diverse studies from various cultural contexts, the authors highlight the ambivalence and complexity of corruption, ultimately advocating for a more nuanced approach to understanding its role within legal systems and state power dynamics.