Absolute power corrupts absolutely.

I think people placed in power get tempted to be corrupt because it is human nature to do so. Many people are willing to sell their principles in exchange for wealth and riches. There are people in high positions that are not corrupt, but, unfortunately I think they are in the minority. This is why good government theory institutes checks and balances, and limits on power.

I wouldn't know if absolute power corrupts absolutely, and I don't think anyone else really does either. I don't know of anyone that has ever had absolute power before. There have been people with a great amount of power, but none with power of everything. Its impossible to have power over everything. Absolute power for mankind does not exist. Yes it is possible for someone in a high position to not be corrupt. The possibility is very low though, because usually the people who get into power like that are already corrupt, they just want to control people, and force them to do things their way, or to get revenge. But it is possible for someone to hold power and not be corrupt.

I remember that King Sejong the Great of Joseon dynasty Korea was a very thrifty man. While Machiavelian teachings were spreading across Europe, this king did wonders in his kingdom. He valued good education and hard work and he treated everyone as people of heaven, a notion unknown even to their sister countries - China and Japan. Although he pardoned a corrupt official Jo Malsaeng, he did this because the country was lacking very talented men. Anyway, he could check on this guy from time to time so it's a win-win situation, I guess. Emperor Marcus Aurelius devoted his life in stabilizing the northern frontier. He was a stoic philosopher and he did well during his years. Another one was emperor Kangxi. He was also workaholic and he never tolerated power vying. He built a chapel inside the forbidden city heired Portuguese priests in government specifically in astronomy and calendar related office. The only flaw he had, according to the Jesuit priests, was that he had many wives. He actually sired 24 sons and 10 daughters.

Since, introducing corruption is not the nature of power but of humanity. The more power one gets, one is supposed to be more prone to corruption or at least arrogance. But, since, this is not the nature of power but of humanity, which is quite dynamic, it is certainly possible but quite difficult for someone in power to be free from corruption. All depends on an individual`s priorities and determination towards honesty, in times when everyone around him/her is corrupt. I believe the coming generation has got enough of that.

I think it's possible.. but not in the kind of society we have today. We value wealth and material possessions too much to make having power absolutely tempting. Take that out of the equation, and I think it's possible. Don't know how that would happen though...

There is always an exemption to the rule I have known a lawyer who became a judge and yet she doesn't allow bribery in her office and does not use her position to take advantage to others. She lived a simple life she is now retired and yet she doesn't possess the riches that others in her profession have. Her husband is also a lawyer and also live in a modest life. I really admire them