Attention Quote by James Surowiecki
“Until the nineteen-seventies, Western countries paid little attention to corruption overseas, and bribery was seen as an unpleasant but necessary part of doing business there. In some European countries, businesses were even allowed to deduct bribes as an expense.”
About This Quote
Historically, many Western businesses treated bribery as a normal cost, reflecting a pragmatic but ethically lax approach to overseas corruption.
In simple terms: Bribery was once seen as a normal business expense.
Recognize and challenge outdated corrupt practices.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- international trade
- government contracts
- corporate compliance
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How have anti‑corruption laws changed business behavior?
- What ethical standards should guide overseas deals?
Modern regulations now prohibit such deductions.