Corruption, Machine Politics and Political Change

Abstract

The characteristics of urban political machines prevalent in the early 20th-century US are examined; the extent of machine politics present in developing nations during the mid-20th century is also explored. Three conditions necessary for the development of political machines are identified: the selection of political leaders through sanctioned elections; the presence of adult suffrage; & the existence of high levels of competition between or within political parties. The role of patronage in political machines & the machines' influence over the enforcement stage of legislation are then discussed. A three-phase schema that illustrates the development of political machines is subsequently presented. Different types of loyalty (eg, community ties) & the inducements required to make individuals change their loyalties are also addressed. It is asserted that machine politics are present in developing nations characterized by fragmented political power, ethnic conflict, & extreme poverty. 2 Tables. J. W. Parker