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Shackle or hammer? How polarisation influences political corruption

Hajnal, Áron and Inalci, Aslinur and Patkós, Veronika (2026) Shackle or hammer? How polarisation influences political corruption. EAST EUROPEAN POLITICS AND SOCIETIES. pp. 1-24. ISSN 0888-3254 (print); 1533-8371 (online)

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Abstract

This study examines how different forms of polarisation shape political corruption through a comparative case study of Hungary and Turkey between 2000 and 2022. Drawing on quantitative and qualitative data sources, the analysis traces four theorised mechanisms linking elite and mass polarisation to political corruption. Findings indicate that elite ideological polarisation can modestly deter corruption, but mass polarisation undermines accountability and thereby facilitates corrupt practices. Crucially, these effects appear to be conditional on regime context: the anti-corruption effects of elite polarisation are only observed during relatively democratic periods, while the corruption-enhancing effects of mass polarisation intensify as democratic institutions erode.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: J Political Science / politológia > JN Political institutions (Europe) / politikai intézmények, államigazgatás, Európa
J Political Science / politológia > JN Political institutions (Europe) / politikai intézmények, államigazgatás, Európa > JN18 Hungary / Magyarország
Depositing User: Dr. Veronika Patkós
Date Deposited: 22 Sep 2026 10:46
Last Modified: 22 Sep 2026 10:46
URI: https://real.mtak.hu/id/eprint/247172

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