Chosen from among 50 nominations worldwide, Michael Johnston, Charles A. Dana Professor of political science at Colgate University, has won the 2009
Grawemeyer Award for Ideas Improving World Order, which carries with it a significant cash prize.
Johnston earned the prestigious Grawemeyer Award for ideas he set forth in his 2005 book, Syndromes of Corruption: Wealth, Power, and Democracy (Cambridge University Press).
"I owe a tremendous debt to innumerable people, many of whose names we will never know, who have resisted corruption in their societies," he said.
In receiving the award, Johnston also thanked "two generations of Colgate students who helped sharpen up the main themes of the book."
According to Syndromes of Corruption: Wealth, Power, and Democracy, corruption can take different forms depending on a country's political and economic patterns.
Johnston believes the practice of using wealth to seek influence is more common in the United States, Japan, and Germany, while forming cartels to protect the elite is more typically seen in Italy, Korea, and Botswana.
The best way to end corruption, added Johnston, is to first examine its underlying causes. "Understanding how corruption develops in a particular country can help us stop it more effectively."
Rodger Payne, a University of Louisville political science professor who directs the award program, said "Johnston's approach is particularly useful because it puts forward a practical agenda for reform."
The Grawemeyer Foundation at Louisville presents five awards for a total of $1 million each year for works in music composition, ideas improving world order, psychology, education, and religion.
Johnston will be presented with the award at the University of Louisville in March 2009, at which time he will deliver a public lecture.
(Syndromes of Corruption is available for purchase through the Colgate Bookstore. Use coupon code mjohnston during checkout and receive free UPS Ground shipping through March 2009.)