The critical business of corruption

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to set out an agenda for promoting collaboration between researchers in critical geography and critical management studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is divided into two main sections. In the first, a detailed discussion of the nature of critical perspectives in the two traditions is advanced which focuses upon the nature of the two disciplines, the contested meaning of “critical” approaches and our relationship with the wider political world. The opportunities for collaboration are explored in more specific detail through consideration of the ongoing attempts to develop a new perspective on the current international pre‐occupation with corruption and anti‐corruption initiatives, which is both critical and multi‐disciplinary.

Findings

In trawling through the political economy of the development of an idea, corruption, the paper demonstrates, not just the part that a critical geographical narrative has to play in informing policy, but also the vital links that geography has to develop with the critical appraisal of business, business management and economics. The paper calls for the combining of insights from both traditions to better assess what is signified by corruption, how the concept is used in the business world and how to convince policymakers that, in this area at least, there is no such thing as a consequence‐free policy.

Originality/value

This paper's originality lies in: its bringing together of two distinct research traditions in geography and management studies; and the novel approach it espouses in relation to refining our understanding of the meaning of corruption and its place in broader debates about economic policy and broad patterns of development.

Citation

Brown, E. and Cloke, J. (2006), "The critical business of corruption", Critical Perspectives on International Business, Vol. 2 No. 4, pp. 275-298. https://doi.org/10.1108/17422040610706622