ABSTRACT
In this section we do not start with a criminological theory that is then compared with rational choice theory (RCT). Instead, we will first present a rational choice explanation, namely Gambetta’s (1993) explanation of the origin and working of the Sicilian Mafia, including the crimes committed, such as killings and extortions. In a next step we analyze to what extent the criminological theories discussed before are consistent with Gambetta’s explanation, can extend or modify it. Gambetta’s central hypothesis is that existing distrust in economic exchange relationships (everybody expects to be cheated) creates a demand (i.e. desire) for protection. This demand is met by the Mafia: it supplies protection. Gambetta explains why distrust exists, why the Mafia provides protection (and why trust does not develop or why the state does not satisfy the demand) and how the Mafia works. In the final part of this section it is argued that the criminological theories discussed before are not capable to modify Gambetta’s explanation.
