"Enforcers, entrepreneurs, and survivors: how the mafia has adapted to change." The British journal of sociology [0007-1315] 36.1 (1985). 34-57.

The purpose of this article is to explain the ways and reasons behind changes in mafia organizations. In addition to this, it explains the unspoken rules that encompass everyone within these mafias. The author argues that the continuity of the mafia can be attributed to economic reasons as well a code of honor that proves to be the basis of the relationships within the group.

The author, Raimondo Calanzaro, explains that this code of honor is something whose roots are from the Mediterranean culture. In Sicilian culture, through one’s actions, a man can gain honor and respect of their peers. Through this, a man who is not born of high status can gain and achieve the respect of others. The Mafiosi were ones that held power, and used this when addressing political and economic issues. The Mafioso must have a reputation among his peers as a man of honor; someone, who in the past has shown to be highly skilled in violence. This reputation allows them to no longer participate in violence, and can rely on others to follow their orders.

Calanzaro states that the role Mafias play in society has changed with the evolution of society. Blending traditional and contemporary methods of the mafia, in order to contain power, the Mafioso adapts to market structure in order to maintain wealth. This article helps to explain the roles and interactions of the movie, The Godfather. Vito Corleone is the head of the family, also known as the Mafioso. Throughout the film, we see that Vito does not participate in any acts of violence even though it is apparent that he is making the decisions. In addition to this, the roles of the other characters become defined. Vito’s son’s and other men participate in much of the violence in order to prove their worth and gain respect to achieve the status of Mafioso.

In addition to this, Michael Corleone displays the attributes of being an entrepreneur. Seeing the growth in Las Vegas he decided to change the family’s business and move to Casinos and gambling. Analyzing the current state of the market while keeping the overall structure of the mafia intact is something that Michael is able to display

"Enforcers, entrepreneurs, and survivors: how the mafia has adapted to change." The British journal of sociology [0007-1315] 36.1 (1985). 34-.