Corruption and Hate's Negative Impact to Society: Exploring the Story of the Clan

Corruption is a disease that infects society. Ethical officials, leaders, and citizens alike generally understand that corruption harms not only individuals but the broader functioning of a free society. It disrupts the fair exchange of commerce, ideas, and human connection.

Yet, despite its clear dangers, corruption isn’t always treated as a pressing concern. In some cases, even when misconduct is evident, individuals go out of their way to shield it—ignoring its repeated patterns and the victims it creates.

The risks to society are real.

A philosopher preaching against corruption and hate.
Corruption has a long tail impact so
good character should be fostered.

"Character is destiny"-Heraclitus

Let us explore a learning narrative: The Story of the Clan. In this hypothetical, philosophical thought experiment, we encounter hampered by clear corruption and hate-based behaviors (The definition of those an open debate. The law and philososphy may say different things.). Over the years, numerous victims emerged—ranging from survivors of sexual violence to those targeted by attempts at social or cultural "cleansing."

Human and civil rights were mocked openly, while the law was twisted to incentivize and protect wrongdoing. Each time a new instance of corruption surfaced, decision-makers affiliated with the Clan blocked investigations and redirected scrutiny onto the victims, whistleblowers, or witnesses. The cracks in the moral foundation of the law—and its purpose—became painfully clear.

The Story of the Clan is not a literal account but a tool for exploring the moral importance of challenging corruption. Most people believe in values like fairness, justice, liberty, and human dignity—and many have pledged to uphold them. But when individuals or institutions manipulate the law while ignoring its ethical foundation, society suffers.

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Risks of Ignoring Corruption

1. Law Becomes a Tool of Injustice
   When people realize the law is being misused—intentionally shielding serious crimes—it loses its perceived legitimacy (..law has an important purpose in society to ensure certain rules that benefit everyone are followed). Corruption erodes faith in legal systems meant to protect society.

2. More Victims Come Forward
   Attempts to suppress victims often backfire. When more survivors speak out, the extent of wrongdoing becomes undeniable. It's especially immoral when whistleblowers and concerned citizens are targeted for trying to do the right thing.

3. Impact on Social and Economic Health
   Corruption undermines prosperity. In our example, once the community began challenging corruption, it reversed a 20-year decline and moved toward a healthier, more vibrant, and economically thriving future (...using a long ethical exploratory story). In such societies we may see crime declining, trust rising, and greater social and economic engagement.

4. Erosion of Public Trust
   Trust in public institutions depends on the belief that officials will uphold the law fairly. When corruption is overlooked or covered up, even by those in positions of power, public confidence deteriorates. Encouraging greater engagement and greater support relies in part on that integrity and wisdom of decision makers.

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Civic Responsibility

It’s vital to be a good citizen by reporting corruption and crime. While some reports are taken seriously, others may be ignored—but documenting misconduct is still important. Yes, retaliation is a risk, especially in environments where corruption has been normalized by some (in this case Clan members). But there remains a greater responsibility to society. People who swear certain oaths and pledges would be helping to fulfill them by reporting corruption and other wrongdoing (It is a duty despite the risks. It helps define a persons soul and values. Keep in mind this is a philosophical piece. Soul and values will be discussed later.).

In The Story of the Clan, we see how protecting corruption has long-term consequences. Each new victim reflects the unresolved, foundational issues that continue to fester.

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Philosophical Questions

1. Is it important for members of society to report corruption and hate crimes?
   Who do they report it to? Are these entities independent, and are they capable of meaningful reform if crimes are well known, documented, and verified? Where are they collected, who reviews, and who makes changes? Does data and trend matter? (If you don't have a mechanism to collect, study and investigate then complaints have little to no impact. In some incidents some may not want to collect or understand.)

2. Do institutions function best when regularly improved?
   Are our systems operating at their highest state, or is there still room for growth, correction, and reform? (It is ok to say no we don't need change but it should be a logical one. Most research indicates that positive upward change is important so I would be interested in seeing reports that say change isn't helpful. The key to understanding is to not make quick conclusions and be willing to accept a variety of information that helps define a problem and provide a possible solution. Never start with a solution or an answer if you don't know what the questions are. Take your time and understand.)

3. How does corruption impact free exchange and core liberties?
   Does protecting corruption undermine life, liberty, freedom of speech, religion, and economic opportunity? One may think of the essential purpose of law and institutions in preserving those essential universal values. Are there economic impacts if there are hamperings to free exchange or core liberties?

4. Can purging corruption help good officials thrive?
   Do fair systems allow the best and brightest to serve with integrity? What happens when corruption is ignored—how does it shape internal cultures? How do those cultures impact employees, public servants and others? Do cultures have impact on organizational success? Will there be more victims and who is responsible for that? Should it be the victims or those who shield corruption and hate?

5. Are ethics and shared values necessary for a healthy society?
   How do we encourage officials to uphold these values? And what does it signal when they don’t? Do ethics really matter and who says that honesty and fairness actually improve society? What happens if values are not shared or ethics is not a concern? (Again...it is ok to say they are not necessary or needed but one should support that belief. In general, conventional wisdom says that shared commitment to certain fundamental missions, objectives, values, etc. lead to coordination and increase in broad based performance.)

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Historical and Philosophical Roots

If you're a history enthusiast, you’ll recall that many of the U.S. founding fathers (and let's not forget the mothers) were deeply concerned with corruption.

• Thomas Jefferson stressed removing corruption and restoring first principles.

• George Washington warned against outside influence.

• James Madison proposed that ambition should counteract ambition to prevent abuse.

• Jefferson also emphasized the role of an informed citizenry in protecting the republic.

Religious and secular philosophers alike have acknowledged the importance of universal principles—those that uphold truth, dignity, justice, and the common good.

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Final Thoughts

This story is meant for learning and reflection. It doesn’t claim to be definitive, but it does help spark discussion and critical thought about corruption, ethics, economic impact, social growth, and the responsibilities we all share.

You are free to agree or disagree as well as bring forward alternative perspectives. What matters most is that you took a moment to think, question, and come to conclusions that reflect your values. That conclusion is something you own as a person and defines you and your values. In some ways it defines your soul (No judgement either way).

Whether you find yourself asking new questions or reaffirming old beliefs, you've engaged in the process of thought—and that’s where growth begins. Time answers all questions......

Supporting American Vets Through Music and Socializing

Our veterans are incredible. They have proudly served our country and continue to serve our communities in meaningful ways. It's important to encourage veterans, their families, and community members to stay engaged and involved. Your support of the club is welcome and appreciated.

Free Online Firefighter Self-Study Courses

Updating knowlege

Updating firefighting knowledge is essential to ensureing effective and safe results. For working professionals who also serve as part-time/volunteer firefighters, balancing competing demands can be difficult, so accessibility and flexibility are especially important. If you are in need of updating your knowledge you may wan to check out the resource below.

The National Fire Academy (NFA) offers free online self-study courses for individuals involved in emergency services. Most courses include Continuing Education Units (CEUs), and successful completion is recorded on the student’s NFA transcript, contributing toward an official NFA certificate.

US Fire Administration Self-Study Courses

NFA Course Catalog

As a side note: Those who serve their communities do alot for free because they care about others. The search for resources is always ongoing. If you would like to donate to a great voluneer fire department to the right please send me a message. 

Escanaba Marketplace and Community Music (An Idea of a Community Based Art Fund)

Could a Scan Me QR Code
and a Calendar/Map 
enhance tourism and quality of life?

The other evening, a group of us gathered at the Escanaba Marketplace to enjoy some fantastic live music. As we sat together, we reflected on how much the town is growing and how events like these are bringing the community closer. Then an idea came forward about a Community Based Art Fund and more exposure of local music and arts activities.

We also discussed an idea to help raise more support for local events: placing signs with QR codes labeled “Scan Me to Donate to Escanaba Music and Arts.” with a wepage listing all of the local events that can be used by tourist and locals (The Chamber of Commerce has a calendar that might fit that part). A fund like this could encourage both visitors and residents to contribute to efforts that enhance community-building activities. With enough momentum, it might even attract larger donations and grant funding.

We imagined these signs being placed permanently at pavilions, key tourism locations, and in the windows of participating businesses. Contributions from visitors could help expand local arts programming—especially if supported by coordinated marketing and tourism efforts to raise awareness of what’s happening in the area.

A vibrant arts scene plays a key role in attracting and retaining talent, improving quality of life, and boosting tourism and investment. While this is just an idea that was floated around this small group it is the ideation process that can bring forward other ideas as well.  Out of many ideas a few may have merit. The arts are a powerful driver of both community enrichment and economic development, and initiatives like this could play an important role in Escanaba’s continued growth as an investment hot spot.

$30.7 billion was sent in Michigan in 2024. MEDC Economic Impact 2024 Michigan Vistors

Leadership and Values: Prosocial or other? (Hypothetical Thought Experiment)

(As a note, I have a book coming out that is related to economics in a series that includes leadership and socialization. After this I will start to write one on leadership and management so I'm looking at this topic as one of interest. I'm not really sure how that book will be formed.)

Leadership is a complex concept, deeply rooted in vision, influence, and the ability to mobilize people and resources to achieve shared goals. A strong leader can inspire others to contribute to a collective vision and elevate group performance in pursuit of that vision. Organizational leadership helps businesses, institutions, non-profits, etc. further their organization's missions and goals. As you read this piece reflect on your own leadership skills, goals, and desires.

However, leadership isn’t inherently positive or virtuous. History shows that many influential leaders were far from ethical. As such, it’s essential to distinguish between prosocial leadership—which serves the greater good—and self-serving or exploitative leadership, often associated with darker psychological traits.

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Prosocial vs. Dark Trait Leadership

Both prosocial leaders and those with dark personality traits can be effective in driving results. The difference lies in their motivation, ethics, and long-term impact.

• Prosocial leaders act in ways that benefit others. They focus on ethical practices, inclusive decision-making, and sustainable growth. These leaders leave behind stronger organizations and healthier organizations. They strive to adapt, improve systems, and create long-term value for the greatest number of people.

• Leaders with dark triad traits—narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy—often pursue short-term goals through manipulation, deceit, or unethical tactics. While they may achieve rapid success or tactical wins, they frequently leave behind weakened organizations and broken trust (investor, employee, people, etc.). Tactics and power leveraging is common.

That said, the distinction between “good” and “bad” leadership isn't always obvious. In practice, many leaders display a blend of traits—some beneficial, some harmful—depending on context, environment, and pressure.

Two articles to review 

Prosocial Leadership

 Dark Trait Leadership

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Balancing Tactics and Vision

When you look in the mirror what 
type of leader are you? What type of leader do
you want to be? What do your values say?

The most adaptable and effective leaders are those who can balance immediate tactical needs with long-term strategic goals. They create visions that people believe in and mobilize collective effort while respecting ethical boundaries. Ideally, their leadership uplifts the organization and benefits the wider community.

Yet, reality is messier. Leaders with both prosocial and dark traits exist across every layer of society—corporations, government institutions, nonprofits, and more. The behavior of a leader is shaped not just by their personality, but also by their environment: incentives, oversight, and cultural norms all play a role in enabling or restraining harmful behavior.

Which type of leader do you want to be?

What will your goals and aims be?

What types of tools, tactics, strategies, and methods would you use?

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(Philosophical Thought Experiment: Leadership During Corruption and Defaults

As a side note, I’ve been exploring a thought experiment related to hate, corruption, and leadership.

Imagine a network—The Clan—composed of corrupt officials and their loyal followers. This group uses public institutions, including the law and courts, to enrich themselves and protect their own. Their loyalty is not to the public/community but to each other, based on social, racial or religious identity (consider any differentiator among people) rather than geography or ancestry.

While the vast majority of officials act ethically and should be enhanced, this subset engages in behavior that some might consider criminal. Still, under the broad definition of leadership as “the act of leading a group,” these individuals could be seen as leaders by some—at least within The Clan and those who share their exclusionary values.

But does leadership only require influence and coordination, or must it also be tied to shared societal values like fairness, justice, etc.? If a “leader” serves only a narrow, unethical cause—while undermining the value of others—can they still be called a leader in any meaningful sense? )

This is, of course, a theoretical exploration for learning purposes—intended to provoke reflection, not assert conclusions.

*Part of a hypothetical philosophical theoretical thought experiment for learning purposes so take with a grain of salt.

Prosocial Leadership

 Dark Trait Leadership

The UP State Fair in Escanaba: Fairs Are Still Popular!

 Good times and good fun in Escanaba as the UP State Fair goes into full swing. Escanaba State Fair. It is wonderful to see the community and surrounding area come out for good food and fun. A tradition that dates back before we were kids. It looks like it is still popular! Full house!

Games and fun.

Pretty good food from what I hear. 

Rides and stuff.

How Economic Data and Organizational Metrics Can Improve Decision Making

Economics is the study of human behavior in quantitative terms, and it offers powerful tools for executives seeking to make stronger, more strategic decisions. In a complex world, relying on intuition alone demands a deep, often subconscious understanding of trade-offs and outcomes. Data, on the other hand, provides structure and evidence that can enhance and refine decision-making.

Consider these two examples:

1. Entering a New Market:
   When a company is looking to expand into a new market, data helps identify trends, assess internal capabilities, and understand the target market's characteristics. This reduces guesswork and increases the likelihood of success.

2. Adding a New Service:
   If there’s a growing demand for a new service, the organization must analyze not only external trends but also internal skillsets—both current and needed. This ensures they are prepared to deliver on new opportunities effectively.

However, data is only useful when it is organized meaningfully. To achieve this, organizations must design clear performance metrics and consider tools like dashboards to visualize and interpret the data effectively.

That said, data alone isn't enough. It must be combined with experience and critical thinking. Data can sometimes be flawed, misleading, or incomplete. It might measure the wrong things or constrain insight if alternative perspectives are ignored.

Ultimately, the intersection of data, experience, and strategic thinking is where the best decisions are made. As executives become increasingly fluent in data and technology, this trend will likely continue—empowering leaders to position their organizations for long-term success.

You can read the following for more insight.

Rosenberg Research-Macroeconomic Data and Decision Making