TOWARD A METHODOLOGY FOR THE COMPARATIVE-STUDY OF POLITICAL CORRUPTION

Robust explanations of political corruption demand that research progr esses beyond purely theoretical analyses and single case studies. In t his article, we highlight problems of definition, operationalization a nd measurement of corruption that have restricted the number of truly comparative, empirical studies of the phenomenon. We suggest a few ste ps that might help researchers overcome methodological obstacles in th eir study of corruption. We introduce and evaluate one example of how the phenomenon might be comparatively operationalized and measured. Wh ile not beyond criticism, the corruption index we present will undoubt edly help light new avenues toward more comprehensive explanations of comparative political corruption.