Mafia as a Social Phenomenon

Mafia refers to organized crime groups that operate illegally to control markets, territories, or activities through violence, corruption, and intimidation. As a social phenomenon, it emerges in environments with weak institutions, economic hardship, and social marginalization, offering members a sense of power, identity, and economic support. Mafias influence communities by shaping social networks, enforcing codes of silence (omertà), and integrating into local societies. They perpetuate a cycle of crime and social instability, often blurring the lines between illegal and legitimate enterprise, and deeply impact the social fabric by fostering fear, mistrust, and unequal power relations.