> For example, if a policeman A catches county clerk B speeding, B could bribe A to forget about that ticket. That would be corruption, but A and B are not in a

> For example, if a policeman A catches county clerk B speeding, B could bribe A to forget about that ticket. That would be corruption, but A and B are not in any hierarchy relation to each other. This example only works if there is a hierarchy: - Policeman A wouldn't take the bribe, unless it's big enough relative to his wealth - Clerk B wouldn't offer the bribe, unless it's small enough relative to his wealth There is an economic hierarchy implicit in the example. The consequences of the ticket are also important, since there's no point spending more on a bribe than would have to be paid in fines.