ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the use of corruption rhetoric as an empty discourse in Greek politics, in particular from the two big rival parties, and occasionally as a method of ensuring electoral supremacy. It shows that corruption rhetoric is also used as a means by contemporary media to dispute the power and prestige of politics in the public eye. In this context, the influence of international organization's measurements of and publications on corruption causes a nihilistic view of Greek society, state and political culture. Greek scholars contribute to this by restricting themselves to a rather ideological criticism of a simulacrum, while reliable research material is blatantly non-existent. In anti-corruption literature, the absence of historical accounts of anti-corruption policies is remarkable. The market economy is based on efficiency; efficiency in competition, not on solidarity. Competition presupposes individualism; the market goes ahead when individualism increases. Predominantly, corruption is associated with economic and political development, which is associated with political patronage and clientilism.
