Human intelligence, social capital and corruption: evidence in ASEAN countries

Abstract

: This paper contributes to the empirical literature in understanding the determinants of corruption by investigating the relationship between intelligence, social capital and corruption using panel data of 9 countries’ ASEAN members for 2013- 2020. The Bayesian data regression technique showed that intelligence and square of intelligence are essential determinants of corruption in the ASEAN region. Specifically, we find a U-shaped relationship between intelligence and corruption. Besides, this study also shows that social capital positively affects corruption. The findings in this study were very stable with different robustness tests. The findings reiterate the importance of intelligence and social capital in controlling corruption in Southeast Asia.