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Abstract Quote by Sarah Chayes

“Corruption is a fact of life in America as in Afganistan, but as American citizens, if we are white, we tend to experience it as an opportunity cost. I live in Washington, DC, where the city council is notoriously corrupt. But how do I experience that? Maybe in streets that are not as well paved…” quote by Sarah Chayes
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“Corruption is a fact of life in America as in Afganistan, but as American citizens, if we are white, we tend to experience it as an opportunity cost. I live in Washington, DC, where the city council is notoriously corrupt. But how do I experience that? Maybe in streets that are not as well paved as they could be, maybe in a bridge that costs a lot more money than it should have. That's a little bit abstract - shocking, of course - but still abstract.”

Sarah Chayes

About This Quote

Source Article: Corruption in Washington, DC, 2020

Corruption creates hidden costs that affect public services and infrastructure, especially for marginalized groups.

In simple terms: Corruption hurts everyday life and fairness.

Key Takeaway

Demand transparency and accountability.

Themes

justice inequality governance

Mood

concerned critical

Type

political analytical

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • public procurement
  • community advocacy
  • budget oversight

Key Concepts

corruption opportunity cost public policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does corruption impact your daily life?
  • What actions can reduce hidden costs?
A Different Perspective

Addressing corruption alone may not fix systemic inequities.

4.9 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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