Drawing on the meaningful work and normalization of corruption literatures, we develop a theoretical model to explain how in corrupt organizations meaningful work can, perhaps counterintuitively, contribute to the perpetuation of corruption in at least three related ways. One way typically involves appealing to a higher purpose to rationalize one’s own participation in corruption. A second way involves the use of meaningful work by corrupt leaders to manipulate others to participate in or excuse corrupt behavior. Third, as the experience of meaningful work among non-corrupt bystanders is undermined, they come to tolerate corruption or leave the organization, thereby perpetuating the presence of corruption within the organization. We conclude by discussing our theoretical model and future research opportunities.
