Forme del potere (mafioso) e pratiche di resistenza nello scenario globale. Questioni teoriche e indagini sul campo. Introduzione

The paper introduces and presents the theoretical-conceptual framework which informs the reflection on the forms of Mafia power and resistance practices activated both at a subjective and community level addressed in the articles that make up the thematic focus. Starting from the changes related to neoliberal globalization processes and their impact in the sphere of law and the State, the authors reflect on the manifestations that mafia power (in its various expressions) assumes in the contemporary world, within the criminal organizations addressed in the empirical contributions and in the network of external relations that consolidates them, in very different geographical, political, economic and cultural contexts (such as, for example, Sicily, Nigeria and Mexico). The analysis shows recurring topics linked above all to the pervasiveness and persistence of some distinctive characteristics of Mafia power, such as, for example, the use of physical and symbolic violence, the control of the territory, the ideological and cultural patriarchal legacy, the ability to exploit traditional culture. At the same time, the forms of opposition to the criminal-mafia power are highlighted both in the dimension of everyday life and in that linked to the progressive emergence of a growing political subjectification of citizens and groups who denounce its oppression and demand justice.