Freakonomics Radio 481. Is the U.S. Really Less Corrupt Than China?
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Nov 4, 2021 Yuen Yuen Ang, a political science professor and author from the University of Michigan, discusses the surprising similarities between corruption in the U.S. and China. She explains how American corruption is often legal, challenging the notion of moral superiority. The conversation delves into the unique corrupt practices in both countries, such as China's 'naked official' system. Ang also examines the paradox of China's economic growth amidst corruption and the implications of lobbying in the U.S. banking sector, prompting a re-evaluation of our understanding of governance.
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A Tale of Two Corruptions
- Yuen Yuen Ang argues that U.S. and Chinese corruption differ in form.
- China's corruption is more overt and illegal, while U.S. corruption is legalized and institutionalized.
The Rhyming of History
- Ang's book, "China's Gilded Age," compares China's current corruption to the U.S. Gilded Age.
- She argues corruption evolves, becoming more sophisticated in richer nations.
Modern American Corruption
- Recent headlines reveal potential corruption in the U.S., including judges with financial conflicts of interest.
- Influence peddling via lobbying yields greater returns than research and development.
