Corruption
In which Rat prefers a more extensive definition
We’re used to understanding ‘corruption’ solely (or mostly) as «giving and taking bribes»; I believe the term should be used more extensively, including other ways how the government is being broken (of which manipulating their «cover your southpole» instinct is probably one of the most effective and efficient).
Etymological note: ‘corruption’ comes from Latin con- + ruptio («breaking, fracture»).
CWCID: inspired by Jim Davidson (with whom I often respectfully, constructively and productively disagree):
The system works great for the people who profit from it. They resist any efforts to reform it.
Honest fear isn’t corruption.