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Let Christ's light penetrate corruption
Originally appeared on spirituality.com
Say the phrase “bribery and corruption,” and many people will think of the developing world, especially Latin America, Africa, Asia. But one thing I’ve learned from living in several different countries is that corruption isn’t a geographical problem—it’s a human problem, and isn't limited to any level of economic or social development.
It’s more blatant, however, in the developing world, where struggling entrepreneurs are harassed by government officials for bribes and kickbacks, and, in countries where I’ve lived, ordinary citizens are routinely shaken down for “contributions” by police. This cycle of behavior can become an accepted, expected way of life, and can hold people in a cycle of dishonesty, greed, and poverty.
Corruption—the misuse of power for selfish ends—involves a predator and a victim. In such cases, the options for the victim appear limited: give in or lose.
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About the author
Before becoming a Christian Science practitioner, Jeremy Carper had a career in public affairs, serving in United States embassies abroad. He now lives in Fredericksburg, Virginia.
