How can we build better tools to identify and predict large scale corruption? We sit with Irene Tello Arista and chat about everything from what corruption is to the systemic pressures that bring it about, and discuss how grand corruption and petty corruption are different not only in scale but in methods. We cover a bit of Irene's background in Mexico starting an NGO to uncover corruption networks, human behavior more generally, and how corruption looks different in different places.

Irene's NGO Action4Justice | Irene's Twitter

Show Notes:

1. Previous Experience: Running an NGO in Mexico, studying corruption and impunity. 

2. Methodology in Corruption Studies: Using data sets and indicators to uncover corruption networks.

3. PhD Work and Approaches to Identifying Corruption: Developing tools and indicators to predict corruption risks.

4. The Role of Artificial Intelligence: Using AI in identifying corruption and ensuring it does not lead to overreach.

5. Data Sources and Their Importance: Types of data sets used in Irene's research and their significance in corruption studies.

6. Ethical and Personal Implications of Corruption: The human aspect of corruption, structures that enhance it, and the individual choices involved.

7. Grand vs. Petty Corruption: Distinctions and implications of each type.

8. Safety Concerns: Addressing safety while investigating corruption at a high level.

9. Systemic and Individual Actions Against Corruption: How systemic changes and individual behaviors can contribute to combating corruption.

10. Public Perception and Civic Engagement: The role of public awareness and activism in addressing corruption.

11. Future Goals and Career Path: blending academic pursuits with practical applications.

12. Reflection on Corruption and Society: The ongoing battle against corruption and the potential for societal change through informed actions and systemic reforms.