Corruption in Spain (2004-2010): Data, Perception and Consequences

Abstract

For some years now, Spanish media have highlighted the numerous
corru ption scandals investigated by the judiciary. All this information
could have led to a more widespread perception of corruption, as
shown by different surveys and indexes. The main object of this article
is to analyze the quantitative and qualitative features of corruption in
Spain and to determine whether there is a correlation between hard
data on corruption and perception of the problem. In this text we have
tested three hypotheses by examining judicial statistics, the contents
of judicial inquiries and data from different surveys and media. This
article contributes to a better understanding of the main features of the
problem and opens the way to more detailed research on its causes and
consequences.