Bribery: An Indisputable Moral Wrong

Bribery is classified as a crime that is malum in se, meaning it is inherently immoral and has been universally recognized as such throughout history, dating back to ancient legal codes like Hammurabi's. In contrast, crimes deemed malum prohibitum are established solely by societal decision, allowing room for debate and complexity. While expectations around malum prohibitum crimes include discussions and gray areas, acts categorized as malum in se, such as bribery, are viewed as clear-cut violations of moral principles, emphasizing their timeless and universal nature.