Perceived Corruption, Public Trust, and Socioeconomic Inequalities: The Roles of Income and Education in Türkiye

This study examines the impact of perceived corruption on public trust in government and public administration in Türkiye, using data from the World Values Survey Wave 7. It explores how socioeconomic factors, specifically income and education levels, moderate this relationship. Findings indicate that higher perceptions of corruption are associated with lower trust in institutions. However, neither income nor education consistently moderate this effect. Interestingly, widespread perceived corruption does not always reduce trust, suggesting a possible normalisation of corruption. The study highlights the complex interaction between corruption perception, trust, and socioeconomic status in shaping citizens’ attitudes toward public institutions in Türkiye.