Checks and Balances: The Concept and Its Implications for Corruption

Abstract It is often assumed that checks and balances are effective in curbing corruption, part because so to be synonymous with the separation of powers. We argue only one several potential manifestations suggest apparent correlation between control corruption driven by a variety conditions antecedent both. Using examples from Western democracies, we demonstrate concept itself an empty vessel, made “hard” factors such as balance political forces “soft” adherence elites particular behavioral norms. This does not mean cannot useful, but rather our assumptions about their precise utility may misinformed: relationship at best indirect.