The Economics of Organized Crime
Fiorentini and Peltzman – Centre for Economic Policy Research – Cambridge University Press
This is book is a compilation of papers presented at a conference on organized crime. Its topics are far and wide ranging and ultimately, for this reader, fascinating. The papers cover a good narrative description on their hypothesis and conclusions, and back up these narratives with the mathematics of economics. Those who just need the story without the math will be very pleased. It is an important read for those involved in investigations. For, while it is focuses on established organized crime, the models, conclusions, and behavior patterns can be applied to gangs, criminal rings, and criminal behavior within business. It is a good book to read and discuss with others in the field, a little like an Oprah book club book, but for the sophisticated investigator.
