Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a new research paradigm that can assist in preventing unethical behavior from strengthening its grip on the global economy. Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses examples of corrupt acts, which affect companies' competitive positions in the global economy. The examples draw upon media reports of unethical behavior in Swedish companies and observations made when conducting field studies in Russia and the Ukraine. Findings – This paper identifies what is to be observed and analyzed at close range in companies with regard to corrupt acts. Furthermore, this paper highlights unethical behavior manifested in reward cultures and earnings manipulation in Western companies, which are problems that threaten fair competition. Originality/value – The paper highlights critical areas of investigation with regard to studies of corruption and other forms of unethical behavior which have a detrimental effect on the development of the global market.