Forms of Corruption in History and in Contemporary Society: Origins, Continuity, Evolution

The etymology of the word “corruption” (lat. Co-rruptum) indicates either an alteration, or an act of seduction, but in any case it leads toward a rupture. In a broader meaning, corruption is understood as the behavior of a person who derails another one from his/her way, customs or duties, through the promise of money, honors or security. History shows that this phenomenon hasgenerally been manifestingin different kinds of cultures and societies starting with the most ancient times. Today corruption is still a reality, generated by the particular economic, cultural and political conditions in both developing and developed countries.

We are seeking contributions on different forms of corruption and on special aspects of corruption in different cultures, historical times, and juridical systems. The major questions which will be discussed during this international conference are:Dophenomena of corruption evolve over time, or remain as primitive as in their first manifestations? What is the impact of these phenomena on forging the identity of certain individuals, communities or nations? Is the ideal that corruption disappear one day utopian?

CORHICS International Conference will take place in Paris from 14 to 16 September 2011 at Paris 1 Sorbonne University and it is organized by Ars Identitatis Cultural Research Association.

Possible topics (only indicative list) include: corruption and the writing of history, corrupted laws, corrupted political or religious figures, corruption in political systems, totalitarianism and corruption, „false” cases of corruption, iconic corrupted figures, the „angels” and „demons” of corruptions, positions of secret societies in history on corruption, specific laws on corruption and their different effects in different historical times, race and corruption, corruption during wars, sexual scandals, the theatre and/or the literature of corruption, implementation of state policies and corruption, the psychology or philosophy of corruption, corruption during revolutions, corruption and economy, manipulation, brain washing techniques, „enhanced” interrogation techniques, medication and side effects, religious fundamentalism, censorship, millenarian politics, utopian politics and corruption, etc.

The proceedings will be published (after the peer reviewing process): some in paperback format, the others in electronic format.

The conference and publication languages are English and French.