Philadelphia, Corrupt and Consenting: A City’s Struggle against an Epithet

by Brett H. Mandel

More than a century after muckraking journalist Lincoln Steffens derided the city of Philadelphia as being “corrupt and contented,” Philadelphia struggles to rise above this unfortunate characterization. Philadelphia, Corrupt and Consentingis the story of a city’s confrontation with a history that threatens its future. Author Brett Mandel, who has been a reform-oriented government official and political insider, provides a detailed account of the corruption investigation of John Dougherty, one of the city’s most powerful political figures, in order to expose and explore networks of corruption. 

 

He examines the costs of corruption, both financial and nonpecuniary, and considers the opportunity cost that corruption imposes. Mandel explores the nature and development of Philadelphia’s unique culture of corruption, emphasizing how machine politics and self-dealing are entwined with city history, creating a culture that allows corruption to thrive. In addition, he provides practical, achievable policies and actions that can produce positive change in Philadelphia and elsewhere.

 

Mandel seeks to provide insight into how our collective actions or inattention give consent to the corruption, as well as its roots and effects, and the reasons for its persistence. Philadelphia, Corrupt and Consenting is a critique, but above all, it is a call to action.
 

272 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 5, 2023

Reviews

[Conor · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a lifelong Philadelphian, I’ve heard the jokes and jabs about our city’s reputation for corruption—from backroom deals in City Hall to power plays in the state legislature. Unfortunately, they’re not always unfounded. Elected officials too often squander the public trust, and indictments have become so common they barely disrupt the business of government. In Philly, that’s just politics.

Brett Mandel takes this bleak status quo and challenges it head-on. In Philadelphia, Corrupt and Consenting, he blends policy analysis, demographic trends, and legal case studies to argue that corruption doesn’t have to define the City of Brotherly Love. Centering the trials of IBEW Local 98 leader Johnny Doc and City Councilmember Bobby Henon, Mandel uses these high-profile cases to illuminate the long history of political dysfunction in Philadelphia—while making a compelling case for reform.

What stood out most to me was Mandel’s ability to explain complex systems with clarity and urgency. He pulls back the curtain on how the machinery of city politics operates, often in ways that frustrate everyday citizens and hinder reformers. His writing is sharp and unflinching, though I did find myself wishing he had named more names. In a city built on handshake deals and political favors, accountability requires candor.

This is essential reading for anyone who cares about Philadelphia’s future. If you believe our city deserves a government that serves people over power, Mandel’s book is a powerful call to action.

[J. R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mandel has written an important book detailing the history of corruption in Philadelphia, explaining why it exists, and offering solutions. The book is well-researched, and the writing style is very accessible. You won’t be a disappointed reader If you care about Philadelphia and want to learn some interesting history.