COMMENT | Can we reverse and uproot that culture of corruption and venality that’s become endemic – and to an extent institutionalised – in our society so as to eventually fade away like the old Marxist theory of “the withering away of the state”? Or must we be content with ensuring only that corruption doesn’t veer out of control but kept suppressed within certain “reasonable limits” since, like other crimes, it’s a reality that defies all attempts at eradication?

Corruption is a crime unlike any other petty (e.g. minor theft) or serious offences (e.g. armed robbery) involving monetary loss as it involves the intent and consent of both parties, i.e., the giver and taker. In other words, corruption and bribery are meant to benefit the parties involved. Everyone gets share or takes a cut, at the end of the day.

The temptation to give or accept bribes is far more instinctive or impulsive compared to the desire to steal as the latter is “unilateral” in nature and constitutes a blatant and flagrant act of criminality.

For those in power, stealing takes the form of ...