The Story of the Clan: Thoughts on the Moral Conscious as it Relates to Hate and Corruption (Hypothetical Philosophical Thought Experiment)

The question of why corruption is tolerated—and in some cases well known—is a complex one with broad, far-reaching implications. There are many possible reasons, but a key factor could lay in the decline of moral conscience. If values erode and leadership quality diminishes, corruption would tend to rise. Strong, ethical leaders—often the “best and brightest”—help to limit these corrosive effects. We can learn from thought experiments and the insights we can gain from them to avoid future pitfalls.

In our hypothetical, philosophical thought experiment, we see how cross-coordination can occur across multiple levels of authority to harm out-group members while rewarding in-group or “clan” members. This may happen in legal, social, and civil domains, where corrupted actors collude to target individuals who support institutional integrity and the development of stronger societies.

In this scenario, mistreatment becomes systemic and long-term, with certain individuals “protected” by compromised officials with an incorrect lens. Exploitation may take the form of bullying, character assassination, physical aggression, and coordinated misconduct. Victims, witnesses, whistleblowers, and even honest officials can find themselves targeted by the clan network without checks and balances (unwritten social rules).

"The virtue of justice consists

in moderation, as regulated by wisdom."

Aristotle

The effects of such clannism are uneven: some gain opportunities, while others suffer harm. Within this closed “fishbowl,” it becomes evident who may be unfairly benefiting from misuse of institutional resources—and how these benefits often run counter to the community’s needs. The most effective way to preserve corruption is to discredit opponents and use institutions for personal, political, ideological, or social gain.

Rumors and orchestrated mistreatment become standard tools of the trade. Good people—those who contribute to society, serve their communities, and uphold shared values—are dehumanized to enable in-group members to exploit loopholes in the law. Meanwhile, the steady “stream” of corruption slowly erodes the very foundation of a system if it seeps long enough through the mortar.  Loyalty shifts from the broader community and national values to the narrow ideology of the group.

The study below underscores the point: a decline in morality (or “moral conscience,” as we call it) is often a precursor to greater corruption—corruption that ultimately undermines the value and purpose of institutions. We can explore this connection between social and economic aspects of corruption and its impact on the environment. Always updating and improving is part of the solution.

Why Governments Become Corrupt: The Role of Power, Education, and Moral Values

*This is a theoretical, philosopical, hypothetical thought experiment designed for learning. We will write in a positive ending. Take with a grain of salt.