Have you heard about the concept of ‘Corrupt Honesty’?

It’s basically playing the game of deceit, sans integrity! Because when ethics, values, and morality become a matter of convenience, honesty becomes the easiest policy!

Corrupt behavior does not exhibit itself overnight. It is a gradual process that eventually envelops individuals in its dark embrace. According to the rational choice theory, we humans make decisions wherein the benefits outweigh the costs, or where risks exist but can be counted as negligible.?

Majority of the time, corruption begins with small actions and small rewards, thriving on the philosophy of ‘no harm will be caused if you don’t get caught’. From time to time guilt does kick in, but we conveniently find ways to justify our actions to ourselves, first, and then to the society at large. Eventually, it becomes a habit and doesn’t feel so ‘wrong’ anymore.?

It’s not a new-age discovery?

Once a taste for this behavior is acquired, the desire to want more, only grows stronger. Take smoking, for instance. It begins socially or on the pretext of ‘trying everything once’ in life. A few puffs later, you enjoy the feeling. You have some more and a thousand puffs later, you just can’t seem to stop. Even when you know the effect that it has on your lungs, you’re in too deep and you don’t seem to care anymore. You’re having fun!??

Personal gain aside, once you realize that others are equally desperate to accomplish their goals in the ever demanding rat-race, and you are the one with resources at your disposal, it’s an instant attraction to power-play! Because power sure works in fascinating ways – It makes you feel more confident, it gives you a sense of superiority like never before, and you envision your worth increasing over time.?

But, absolute power also corrupts absolutely

Although financial benefits largely drive corruption, it proportionately also has detrimental effects on the country’s long-term economic growth. Industries frequently discuss and comment on the corruption in ‘other’ industries; it’s a hushed affair. Because although the law emphasizes punishing unethical behavior, the guilty are let go scot-free in the absence of concrete evidence!?

The counter to corruption is an honest, transparent system. This honesty should come from every professional, especially from those, in powerful positions. But, honesty is also tough. It needs to be encouraged, incentivized, and appreciated.?

But most importantly, it needs to be practiced – consistently and diligently. Before it falls prey to corruption.?