Book Description

This is a very timely book. The coverage it gives to the topic is superb. The individual, organisational and institutional causes of corruption are laid out along with analyses of the choices that we all have to make to deal with its consequences. In these times of increased scouting of corporate behaviour, there is something to learn here for policy makers, corporate leaders and researchers alike. Paul Sparrow, Lancaster University, UK Ronald Burke and Cary Cooper have assembled the most comprehensive volume of work available today on the topic of organizational corruption. However, the volume is far-reaching in more than just its content. In addition to attracting some of the most widely-read scholars in the area, Burke and Cooper have found space for a number of bright new voices and thus, insights as well. This makes for a volume that is as vibrant and exciting as it is complete. Scholars not only should read it, they will enjoy doing so. Marshall Schminke, University of Central Florida, US Corruption in organizations is creating an increasing number of victims and causing huge costs. This timely book brings together international researchers who address the causes and consequences of corruption in organizations and the action needed to reduce levels of corruption worldwide. Corruption is a worldwide problem and is likely to increase as a result of the current economic meltdown. Specific attention is devoted to causes of corruption such as individual levels of moral development, moral disengagement, greed, the routinisation of corruption, and organizational factors such as conflicts of interest, reward systems and organizational cultural values. The Companion suggests methods and examples to reduce levels of corruption that include education and training, whistleblowing, the increase of organizational controls through rules and structure, and developing an ethical organizational culture. Academics and postgraduate students interested in both crime and corruption in organizations will warmly welcome the Companion. Policymakers in government, those involved in professional services such as accountants and lawyers, as well as managers of any organization interested in conducting ethical business will find the Companion invaluable.