Understanding Corruption (958M9)
Understanding Corruption
Module 958M9
Module details for 2022/23.
30 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Module Outline
The objective of this core module is to develop analytical and theoretical tools that will allow us to analyse corruption across both time and space. The module begins by analysing exactly what we understand 'corrupt' behaviour to be and how this appears to differ (often quite starkly) across national boundaries and over time. Do humans appear to be naturally corrupt? If so, does this matter? Is corrupt behaviour absolute and universal or does it depend on location and context? Indeed, can corruption sometimes even be a good thing? The module will have contributions from the political science, legal, anthropological, business and management and development studies disciplines.
Armed with the analytical tools aimed at unpacking the complex phenomenon of corruption, we will examine specific examples of corruption across the developed and developing world, ranging from systematic abuses of power by parties and politicians to small-scale, almost trivial, petty misdemeanours. This analysis then provides a foundation for examining what reforms might contribute to lessening instances of political corruption in the western world and beyond.
Module learning outcomes
Arm students with the analytical tools suitable for conceptualising and critically evaluating different types of corruption.
Critically analyse the socio-economic and cultural contexts that prompt differing types of corrupt activity
Critically evaluate the effectiveness of anti-corruption strategies propagated by international organisations and national governments.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Essay (2000 words) | Semester 1 Assessment Week 1 Tue 16:00 | 40.00% |
| Essay (4000 words) | Autumn Semester Week 11 Mon 16:00 | 60.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 11111011111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Rebecca Dobson Phillips
Assess convenor, Convenor
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Prof Emily Robinson
Assess convenor
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