Sociology of Corruption Course
SOC 410
Course Description:
“Corruption” is a very strong and loud word. Media and press seem to be constantly yelling about
corruption scandals; economists, politicians, and world leaders, everyone is talking about the big “C”
word nowadays. But what does “Corruption” stand for? How is corruption connected to culture and
society? What is the relationship between corruption and inequality? Can corruption be good? This
course addresses these questions by providing a sociological understanding of corruption.
In this course, specific attention will be paid to studying the connection between macro and micro
processes; corruption and culture; corruption and society; corruption and inequality. The course will
start with teaching the basics: the role of social capital and social networks. Further in the course we
will analyze a variety of definitions, opinions, and theories applicable to corruption studies. We will
also explore the ways how political, economic, and sociological processes affect the formation and
development of corruption. These topics will be examined through the prism of social institutions,
cultural contexts, and informal exchange. With the help of comparative analysis, we will gain insight
into the corruption practices that characterize different countries.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the course, you will:
● Get acquainted with the range of definitions, types, and classifications of corruption;
● Grasp major theories of corruption and sociological theories that help explain the construct of
corruption;
● Be able to interpret the role of culture and values in the definition of corruption;
● Be able to explain the role of “bad apples” and institutionalized corruption;
● Have learned how corruption affects different social institutions and lives of average citizens;
● Understand insights into the social intricacies of corruption in different countries;
● Feel comfortable to discuss and critique current media reports on corruption;
● Apply newly gained knowledge in the research project on the corruption case of your choice.
- Subject:
- Social Science
- Sociology
- Material Type:
- Full Course
- Author:
- Liudmila Listrovaya
- Date Added:
- 03/08/2021