Corruption and weakness of will

• Alain ANQUETIL
  Researcher, Centre for applied epistemological research École Polytechnique
  Associate research professor, ESSCA
  

Summary

In the framework of his thesis the central part of which was the interrelationship of cognitive science, philosophy and social psychology, Alain Anquetil analysed a series of accounts of people who had been implicated in instances of corruption in the workplace. Having demonstrated weakness of will (Aristotle's akrasia), in other words, having intentionally carried out an action contrary to their better judgment, these individuals went through a rumination phase which resulted in them taking radically opposing action, often resulting in resignation. This paradoxical process may be interpreted as a « flaw in rationality », or as the result of a dilemma between contradictory values. It can also often be explained by the considerable isolation felt by those who are faced with difficult decisions.

Summary translated from French by Rachel MARLIN.

• The entire article was written by Élisabeth BOURGUINAT and translated by Rachel MARLIN.

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The entire article appears in French in the Journal de l'École de Paris du management N° 51.