Official Misconduct – An Entrepreneurial Explanation

Abstract This article takes a unique perspective on official misconduct, viewing official misconduct as an entrepreneurial manifestation. We propose a typology of misconduct based on discovery and creation, structured around three dimensions that represent entrepreneurial choices to explore or exploit. We empirically apply this typology through an analysis of 11 official misconduct cases in Danish municipalities, a robust institutional context. This research enhances understanding of the relationship between strong institutions and unproductive entrepreneurial behavior, offering practical insights for policymakers and public administrators.