Bookshelf

Alumni and faculty members who would like to have their books considered for this listing should contact Stacey Himmelberger, editor of Hamilton magazine. This list, which dates back to 2018, is updated periodically with books appearing alphabetically on the date of entry.

Philadelphia, Corrupt and Consenting: A City’s Struggle against an Epithet by Brett H. Mandel ’91

October 12, 2023

Tags Alumni Book

(Philadelphia: Temple University Press: 2023).
The author, who has worked as a reform-oriented government official and political insider, tells the story of a city’s confrontation with a history that threatens its future. His account of the corruption investigation of John Dougherty, labor leader and one of Philadelphia’s most prominent political figures, examines the costs of corruption, both financial and nonpecuniary, and considers the opportunity cost that corruption imposes. According to the publisher, “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.” As Philadelphia magazine noted: “Civic activist and author Mandel tallies up the long-term toll corruption has had on this city while offering a glimpse at a better future, if we’re willing to work for it.”