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Synergizing anti-corruption strategies: Group monitoring and endogenous crackdown – An experimental investigation

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  • Jiang, Shuguang
  • Wei, Qian
  • Zhao, Lei

Abstract

In this experimental study, we examine the efficacy of a novel anti-corruption approach that synergistically combines top-down institutional measures with grassroots monitoring by the public. Employing a repeated stranger matching harassment bribe game, we introduce a group monitoring mechanism where the likelihood of corrupt officials being punished increases as more citizens engage in monitoring. Our findings highlight that citizens' decisions to monitor are primarily driven by officials' harassment. Despite facing the social dilemma of anti-corruption, a substantial proportion of citizens willingly incur costs to monitor, resulting in a significant reduction in officials' bribe demands. Although an additional crackdown mechanism slightly decreases citizens' intrinsic motivation, it ultimately enhances the efficiency of anti-corruption outcomes over time, demonstrating its long-term effectiveness.

Suggested Citation

  • Jiang, Shuguang & Wei, Qian & Zhao, Lei, 2024. "Synergizing anti-corruption strategies: Group monitoring and endogenous crackdown – An experimental investigation," China Economic Review, Elsevier, vol. 85(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:chieco:v:85:y:2024:i:c:s1043951x24000476
    DOI: 10.1016/j.chieco.2024.102158
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Corruption; Harassment bribe; Group monitoring; Endogenous crackdown; Experiment;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C92 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Group Behavior
    • D73 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Bureaucracy; Administrative Processes in Public Organizations; Corruption
    • K42 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Illegal Behavior and the Enforcement of Law

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