Understanding and Combating Global Corruption: A Reader provides students and anti-corruption thinkers and activists with a collection of essays by accomplished scholars and thinkers from around the world. The essays challenge readers to think through issues associated with global corruption, in both commerce and government, with reference to particular forms of corruption such as bribery and fraud, as well as to systemic or systematic abuses of power or authority.

In the opening reading, students learn that the term "corruption" has a broad definition that is not limited to quid pro quo transactions, but can also involve betrayals of trust and failures to render honest services on behalf of stakeholders. Additional readings examine the various forms of corruption that have developed within the United States throughout the country's history, and how that corruption was mitigated or ablated by government officials acting in the public interest. Students explore cases of corruption from other countries, including Brazil and Nigeria. The text closes with a philosophical argument that a "whole-of-society approach" could help countries move toward eradicating corruption.

Featuring enlightening and thought-provoking readings, Understanding and Combating Global Corruption is an ideal resource for courses in business and professional ethics.