Impacts of the MafiaThe mafia is an Italian secret criminal society. The mafia, or syndicate, impacts cities around the world. Most of the effects of the mafia are negative, but there can be several positive effects on the culture and economy of the cities they frequent. Peter Maas declares that organized crime is “the biggest business in the country” (Maas). "The largest and most notorious organized crime group is the national organization known as the 'Syndicate,' 'Mob,' 'Mafia,' and 'Cosa Nostra'" (Nash, Jason O-155 ). Some mafia activities include gambling, loan sharking, pornography, illegal drugs, and racketeering. The mafia started in Sicily, but was not limited to that one place. In fact, in the late 19th century, many Sicilian members immigrated to the United States (Nash O-155). The Mafia in the United States includes American members of Sicilian origin ("Mafia" M-48). There are several mafia groups in the United States. Law enforcement authorities agree that there are approximately twenty-five groups operating in major cities across the country (Nash O-155). Different mafia groups are called "families" because all members are related. Each family is headed by a capo, or boss, whose authority is very absolute. Some caps may be called "godfathers" because the capo serves as godfather to the children of "family" members. Most mob bosses own legitimate businesses. Ownership does not involve racketeering, because running a business honestly allows owners to enjoy respectability (or at least bluff). Below the boss are the sottocapo, or underboss, and a consigliere, or advisor. The consigliere is an older member of the fa...... middle of paper ......benefits economically from its activities in these markets. Countries with offshore centers specializing in money laundering reap significant benefits. Unlike the negative effects of the mafia and organized crime, the positive effects are direct and quickly perceptible (Van Dijk 56). Although it may seem that the revenue from all illegal activities helps the economy, this is not the case. There are profits, but it all leads back to negativity: corruption, less rule of law, business risk, etc. The economy is actually slowed and weakened rather than strengthened (Van Dijk 52). Whether happy or unhappy, the Mafia has an impact on the cities it frequents. The effects can be positive or negative. Overall, the impact of the mafia on the culture and economy in which it frequents is undoubtedly negative..