Why Politics Today is Littered with Corruption and Scandals: A Historical and Contemporary Analysis

Polity is a delicate balance, a stage where leaders are expected to serve the public with honesty, integrity, and respect. Yet, today, it seems that politics and politicians are increasingly synonymous with corruption and scandals. This article delves into why honorable and respectable politicians appear to be a rarity and what this says about contemporary and historical governance.

The Evolution of Governance and Its Impact

The roots of corruption and scandals in politics can be traced back to the very foundation of governance. For centuries, the power dynamics have favored a select few over the majority. The Magna Carta, for instance, was reluctantly signed to provide the barons with greater power, but it was never meant for the benefit of the common people. Instead, it served as a tool to exert control over serfs and ensure the prosperity of the aristocratic elite.

As times changed, the barons' power evolved into a form of employer-employee relationship, often resembling modern labor exploitation. The advent of the Industrial Revolution exacerbated this disparity, where minimal remuneration and working conditions became the norm, especially among the working class. Governments, under the influence of strong economic interests, increasingly forgot the social contract with the public and prioritized self-enrichment over public welfare.

The Normalization of Corruption: A Modern Perspective

Today, corruption and scandals seem to have become more normalized than ever before. As noted in numerous historical examples, such as Jackson's era, the Teapot Dome scandal, Boss Tweed, Watergate, and the Iran-Contra affair, politicians have long faced crises and controversies. However, contemporary society seems to be more accepting of such issues, often viewing them as inherent in the political landscape rather than aberrations.

It is a common sentiment that no matter the era, politicians are held to a double standard. When a government official accepts a bribe, they are swiftly charged and arrested. Conversely, when people expect money to influence votes, the question remains: who should be punished?

The Political Class and Power Dynamics

The real power in politics is often with money, and those who have it wield it to maintain their positions and further their interests. Governments and politicians, funded by special interests, are often driven by the pursuit of profit rather than the public good. This dynamic has led to a significant gap in prosperity and scarcity of genuinely honorable politicians.

Despite this, instances of corruption and scandals do not overshadow the few honorables who work tirelessly to serve the public. Chief Whips, often speaking as mere mouthpieces for the Prime Minister, demonstrate the lack of true representation and accountability within the political system.

The Need for a Renaissance in Governance

For genuine transformation and the restoration of public trust, a renaissance of governance systems is imperative. The current status quo favors the elite and benefits the few at the expense of the majority. Until we see significant changes in how political power is exercised and who wields it, the cycle of corruption and scandals will continue.

The future of politics lies in transparency, accountability, and the true pursuit of the greater good. We must demand and work towards a political environment where honesty and integrity are the norm, not the exception.