A lot of the countries above have somewhat more governmental power. I'd say a much more effective way to limit corruption would be through electoral and campaign reform. 

We are "only" on 89? shame on you politicians

in my country there is no corruption just stupidity.

wow iam surprised that puerto rico is in 35.

I understand that some have more governmental power, but none are anywhere as large as America. I agree that election/campaign reform would help, but I also think that requiring more accountability via more focus on local government would help as well.

Fair enough. And I couldn't agree more on accountability, though I always wonder just how size factors in to the equation. I also couldn't agree more on a local government focus. But I must admit I'm a tad ignorant on U.S. municipal affairs. Do U.S. cities have the ability to charge their own taxes? or are they entirely dependent on property taxes like Canadian cities?

17th! Worse than I'd expect, but looking at some others I guess not that bad.

i watch this in the news yesterday, i laughed venezuela and other left wing countries were among the most the corrupt nations, while the US is the paradise of truth and non corruption.

Ok, Since I have no idea how to judge sarcasm on the internet, are you being serious emilie autumn?

^ Stof. I hope that it was sarcasm lol.