Exploring the interrelationship between public service motivation and corruption theories
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the interrelationship between public service motivation (PSM) and corruption theory. This paper further explores the possibility of integrating two theories in order to prevent corruption.
Design/methodology/approach
Existing theories on PSM and corruption were briefly reviewed in finding the connection between the two theories. The discussions primarily focus on finding the theoretical and empirical interrelationship between PSM theories and corruption theories.
Findings
This paper suggests applying PSM theories in preventing corruption by adding ethical dimension of PSM to corruption theories. In other words, the PSM constructs can be incorporated in developing an anti-corruption strategy. In the context of public administration, the authors find the importance of PSM theory in developing an effective anti-corruption strategy.
Practical implications
Public officials should be encouraged to possess strong ethical standards in public service; highly motivated candidates for public service positions should be sought in order to create a clean and reliable government; and PSM educational programs in the early stages of schooling should be adopted to stimulate ethics for young children.
Originality/value
This study adds contributions to the understanding of theoretical relationship between PSM and corruption theory. The authors suggest that integrating PSM and corruption theory can be beneficial in building new paradigms to prevent corruption in a country such as Korea.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This is a revised version of a paper presented at the International Workshop (Friedrichshafen, Germany) held by the Zeppelin University, and sponsored by Behavioral Foundations of Public Service Motivation, October 9-10, 2014. The authors are grateful for helpful comments on an earlier draft of the manuscript and extend their appreciation to Dr Rick Vogel and Dr Fabian Homberg, and two anonymous referees.
Citation
Kim, Y.J. and Kim, E.S. (2016), "Exploring the interrelationship between public service motivation and corruption theories", Evidence-based HRM, Vol. 4 No. 2, pp. 181-186. https://doi.org/10.1108/EBHRM-12-2015-0047
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited