The Development of Political Corruption:
A Case Study of Israel
The paper emphasizes the effects of various societal forces on the development of
corruption. The study of these factors contributes to an understanding of how
corruption can thrive in countries with high levels of political development. Three
stages of the life-cycle of corruption have been identified in Israel, which serves as
a case study. The embryonic stage is associated with foreign domination of
Palestine. The period after Israel became independent and until 1967 marks the
development stage of corruption, when inhibiting and stimulating forces intermingled
and produced white corruption, which was rationalized, condoned and
allowed to prevail. The period since 1967 evidences the maturation of corruption.
In this period, inhibiting forces of corruption are declining, while catalyzing forces
of corruption are accentuating. The result is numerous scandals of black corruption
that upset the political system.