Quote Originally Posted by Pannonian View Post
Alternatively, define it as what you expect to happen when you approach a low level government official and offer a bribe. If you get an advantage, the polity is dysfunctional. If you get into trouble, the polity is functional. In that way, the film Lincoln shows a US that's on its way to functionality, as open cash bribes were frowned on by then. Job offers on the other hand...
How about complimentary tickets, "speakers" fees, etc.? "With great power" in mind, I'd be shocked to hear of any government at any level that was devoid of "gifts" of some nature. IMO that is not what people mean when they say corruption. Like Tiaexz says, a little bit can be beneficial.