This book offers a completely new approach to the complex social phenomenon of the Mafia: In addition to the origins, organization and actions of the Mafia, the author Anita Bestler examines above all the close connection between organized crime and politics. In the process, readers [also] gain an interesting insight into the complicated political development of Italy from the founding of the state to the present, as well as an answer as to why Italians have a different political mindset.

Sociologist and political scientist Dr. Anita Bestler has lived in Palermo, Sicily, for over 20 years. During this time, she has intensively observed, researched and analyzed the relationship between the Sicilian mafia and politics.