Venality

Venality refers to the quality of being open to bribery or corruption, often leading to the act of performing unethical or illegal actions for financial gain. It connotes a lack of integrity and moral principles where one's judgments and actions can be influenced by the prospect of receiving payment or illicit benefits. venality is particularly prevalent in discussions concerning politics, governance, and other power structures, implying a breach of trust and ethical standards.

Venality meaning with examples

• The inquiry revealed a shocking level of venality among federal officials, indicating that many had compromised their integrity for personal gain, ultimately undermining public trust in government institutions. The report recommended reforms to minimize corruption and enhance transparency in public service, highlighting the importance of ethical leadership in safeguarding democratic values.
• Despite the political rhetoric surrounding integrity, the reality of venality in local election campaigns often prevails. Candidates may resort to unethical practices, including bribery, to secure votes, raising questions about the legitimacy of the electoral process and the implications for the democratic system. Activists call for stricter regulations and accountability measures to combat this trend.
• The boardroom atmosphere was rife with venality as executives prioritized profit over ethical standards, leading to several questionable decisions that jeopardized the welfare of employees and the environment. Critics argued that such practices not only harmed the company's reputation but also reflected a deeper cultural issue within the industry.
• In literature, venality is often used as a theme to explore the moral decay of society. Authors paint portraits of characters whose desires for wealth and power lead them down corrupt paths, serving as a critique of contemporary values. These narratives emphasize the consequences of allowing greed to overshadow integrity.
• The documentary examined the venality within the international aid sector, highlighting how donors and NGOs sometimes prioritize personal interests over the true needs of communities. This practice distorts the intended goals of aid initiatives, leading to a loss of trust among beneficiaries and undermining the effectiveness of humanitarian efforts.