When it comes to good governance, convention has it that less corruption translates into more economic growth and a healthier body politic. But what if this isn’t always the case? Although there are cases where corruption has promoted conflict, in other instances it has helped restore peace in a country. A more nuanced and less ideological view of "corruption" is needed if countries are to fight graft without undermining peaceful co-existence. Elizabeth Pisani is a journalist & epidemiologist.