Corruption Index: Learning How to Reduce Corruption Through a Thought Experiment (Story of the Clan)

(Illustrative Only)

Thinking about Kotter's Model
of Change and how small
adaptive changes leads to
smoother growth when 
compared to larger fast paced
changes. Leo thinks small 
faster paced changes could
improve systems based on
emerging science and 
societal expectations. Micro
changes that improve outcomes.

Leo is part of the 
hypothetical Feather Party
that is used for philosophical
discussion on a third vote
tipping party of independents that
doesn't work with special interests,
limits campaign donations, doesn't 
allow for party-line votes. It
uses an agreed upon decision 
making matrix based 
on the needs of the
next generation. Each
member must make their
own consclusion and
vote their conscious. The party
does not exist at this time
in history, a type of thought
experiment.

 If you don't like
one independent's
thoughts you can pick
another. The goal being
to create liquidity of intellectual
thoughts to greese friction. 

Philosophy and Politics
as Guides to Governance

We can talk about corruption endlessly and still miss the deeper consequences of its spread. The Story of the Clan is a philosophical learning allegory that underscores the need for systems grounded in principle rather than politics, ideology, prejudice, or personal gain. It functions as an early warning, revealing how certain mindsets and assumptions can produce harmful outcomes. Keep in mind this story is for learning and exploring so take with a grain of salt. Secretive targeting, suppressing speech or beliefs, and using institutions to punish some while rewarding an in-group are all improper and unlawful in orientation. In the example, poor actors intent was in some cases to exploit and dehumanize others in a way that inflicts harm, and benefits insiders. Once such practices are uncovered, failing to correct them reflects the values behind decision-making and the level of commitment to one’s oaths. (Remember that actions and habits are usually goal-oriented and in some cases might reveal a larger pattern. Nothing is in a vacuum. Behavior and Habits in Goals).

Now consider how this might relate to the global corruption index.

According to the recent report, there has been a general decline in the fight against corruption. Some have concluded that addressing it is not worth the time or effort, despite its significant costs. Thought experiments like the Story of the Clan illustrate how hate, bias, and unchecked misuse of authority weaken systems when checks and balances fail. The mistreatment persisted for years and affected more than one generation. These type of losses for victims nor the potential broader loss in human capital were not considered. We often selectively choose what we want to see and consider as valued (See philosophery versus lawyer conception below.)

The story moves toward resolution only when accountability is restored, trust rebuilt, and a renewed commitment to shared values emerges. In this game theory everyone looses until the actors accept there are certain norms that improve the outcomes and benefits of everyone. This is why those assumptions, beliefs and symbolisms were created to ensure society has cohesive glue as an adaptive species trait (Game Theory Selfish Eventually Loose).  It can ultimately become a positive story, but only if we continue to act as guides through the fog of competing agendas, limited reflection on societal purpose, and institutional entitlement. Clear sight comes on the other side of that journey.

When we learn and adapt, corruption declines. Most officials act with integrity and deserve recognition for their service. However, when checks and balances are weak or absent, even a small number of bad actors can exploit the system and undermine social contracts. Dumping it on victims creates a secondary harm and perpetuates the poor behaviors and the impact on societal health. There never should be second class citizens. When we fail to learn, the problems grow. Rising corruption damages economic development, weakens social cohesion, and disrupts the basic functioning of institutions.

Respect for law and order requires understanding the intent of the law, not treating it as a tool for gamesmanship. Laws form a social contract meant to hold everyone to the same standards; when they are misused, they lose perceptual value (Integrity, performance and perceptual integrity can be thought of as part of trust.). Those who model integrity strengthen society as a whole. Philosophers often remain closer to principle because they rely on broad ethical reasoning rather than narrow self-interest—although such clarity can be uncomfortable in many settings and, as a result, tends not to last long (Philosophy-Know Nothing) 

Corruption harms every society. Reducing it requires a commitment to core values, institutional purpose, and the idea that all members of society share in the same protections and responsibilities. (When things more like a game then there may too many lawyers and not be enough philosophers to maintain a true north point of sail.).

Corruption Perceptions Index 2025: Decline in leadership undermining global fight against corruption

A summary of the article:

• The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index shows global corruption worsening, with the global average score falling to 42, the lowest in more than a decade. Most countries score below 50.

• Transparency International reports a long-term decline in strong, accountable leadership to fight corruption, including in established democracies such as the US, UK, Canada, New Zealand, France, and Sweden.

• The number of high-performing, low-corruption countries has dropped from 12 a decade ago to just five in 2025.

• Many countries with declining CPI scores also saw reduced civic space, including pressures on media, civil society, and public freedoms.

• Public dissatisfaction and protests increased, including among younger generations in countries such as Nepal and Madagascar.

• The organization calls on governments to strengthen enforcement, protect civic space, improve oversight and transparency, and close loopholes that enable corrupt financial flows.

*This is a philosophical, theoretical, thought experiment for learning purposes and exploring concepts. Feel free to change around the elements and come to your own conclusions. Take with a grain of salt.