The authors attempt to develop a theory-based approach to organized crime by first dealing with definitional problems. They look at organized criminal groups, organized crime methods, and major national commissions and investigative bodies devoted to preventing organized crime. Consideration is paid to organized crime theories, including alien and other conspiracy, cultural transmission, cultural conflict, strain, ethnicity and ethnic succession, enterprise, integrated, and criminality theories. Subsequent book sections focus on the history of organized crime, organized criminal activities of gangs, organized criminal groups and activities in New York City and Chicago, and organized crime prevention strategies. The authors also discuss specific forms of organized crime (gambling, loan sharking, and business and labor crimes), organized crime myths, ethnic and international organized crime, urban and motorcycle gangs, hate groups, and policy issues in dealing with organized crime (media, public education, enforcement, and legalization). References, tables, and figures