Why Bribery and Corruption Outweighs Armed Robbery as a Threat to National Stability

When faced with the stark choice of 'hand over your valuables or I'll kill you,' or 'pay me 1000 dollars or I'll expose your indiscretions,' which would you choose? The severity of these scenarios is not merely about the immediate threat; it is about the underlying issues they represent and their long-term impacts on societal stability.

The Nature of Extortion

While armed robbery and bribery both involve coercion, the stakes are significantly different. Armed robbery is a stark and immediate threat to life, leaving victims questioning their very survival. However, bribery and corruption, while also coercive, often represent more insidious and systemic issues. The former is an isolated incident, but the latter is an ever-present, oppressive cloud that hangs over entire systems and societies.

RICO Laws versus Unchecked Corruption

RICO laws, designed to combat organized crime, can be effective against armed robbery. However, when it comes to government corruption, especially within powerful and influential families and media conglomerates, the accountability is often flimsy at best. For instance, the Biden family has faced scrutiny over alleged conflicts of interest and influence, a stark departure from the strict scrutiny given to high-profile criminal cases.

Media and Public Perception

The way corruption is portrayed in media also plays a significant role in public perception. Institutions such as MSNBC, CBS, ABC, CNN, and NBC often shield government officials and their corrupt actions under the guise of national interest or patriotic duty. This creates an echo chamber of misinformation that further undermines public trust and exacerbates societal divisions.

Societal Impact and Distrust

Bribery and corruption have a far-reaching impact on societal trust and stability. When a government is perceived as corrupt, citizens are less likely to engage in legal commerce and more likely to seek alternative means of survival. This can lead to a breakdown in the rule of law and an increase in informal, often unsafe, economic activities. In contrast, armed robberies, while dangerous, are typically isolated incidents that do not undermine the overall governance framework in the same way.

Examples of Corruption and Its Impact

Consider the case of Russia, where overreliance on oil revenues has maintained a semblance of wealth, but corruption and low productivity levels have stunted economic growth and created a culture of dishonesty. Remove oil, and Russia risks falling back to third-world status. Another example is Saudi Arabia, a nation rich in natural resources yet plagued by corruption, limited rights for women, and an unwelcoming environment for global businesses.

Global Perception and Emigration

The litmus test for a nation's level of corruption and bribery can often be seen in emigration patterns. Nations with high levels of corruption and bribery, such as those in parts of Africa and the Middle East, often see waves of emigration as their citizens seek better opportunities in more stable and trustworthy environments. In contrast, countries like the United States, with its large money supply and due process of law, attract immigrants and businesses due to their robust economic and legal systems.

In conclusion, while armed robbery poses an immediate threat to individual safety, its impact is often localized and does not necessarily threaten the underlying governance and economic stability of a nation. On the other hand, widespread bribery and corruption can erode trust in institutions, stifle economic growth, and create a climate of fear and uncertainty that undermines national stability.