The course examines the history of the Mafia from its origins to the present day. How the Mafia works and has succeeded as well as approaches, including those by civil society organizations, to combating the Mafia are also examined. Attention is paid to examples of Mafia enterprises, its past and present role in politics, and its evolution from a regional organization to one with an international reach. A research project, with both a paper and an oral presentation, is required.