Although R. Anerson (1965) argues that 'in America, the traditional Mafia has evolved into a relatively complex organization which perpetuates selected features of the older peasant organization, but subordinates them to the requirements of a bureaucracy, the organization described by Vito (fictitious name of the interviewee) is not complex nor bureaucratic. Rather, it appears closer to the feudal structure that Hess (1973) and Blok (1974) attribute to the Sicilian Mafia. The amorphous quality of its structure makes organized crime difficult for governments to counter. Membership in the Mafia is restricted to those of Italian heritage, and it brings with it the status and respect built into the subculture of the Mafia. There are clearly defined roles in the Mafia enterprise. Vito explained the roles of enforcer (ensuring that the will of the Mafia is implemented) and money-mover (an expert in financial matters who works in a vague partnership with any family member who needs his expertise). Mafia rules emphasize submission to the authority of superiors, loyalty to organization members, disciplined obedience to orders, and secrecy. The business of organized crime shifts according to the lucrativeness of markets that can be tapped by both legitimate and illegitimate activities. Whether the operation be nominally legitimate or thoroughly illegitimate, organized crime gives priority to maximization of profit without concern for conformity to law. A total of 150 references are listed, and author and subject indexes are provided.