1. Switching gears, I want to talk a bit about Rob Ford and gangsterism.
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Replying to @HeerJeet
2. This
@joshtpm post gives good summary of where things stand in Ford case:http://talkingpointsmemo.com/edblog/mystery-phone-call-emerges-in-rob-scandal …1 reply 6 retweets 3 likes -
Replying to @HeerJeet
4. Evidence is circumstantial, so it's entirely possible that Ford won't face criminal charges.
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Replying to @HeerJeet
5. But if we look at evidence we already have, Ford is best understood as a gangster (rather than just a buffoon).
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Replying to @HeerJeet
6. Ford-as-gangster helps explain not just his behavior in trying to find crack video but also his political support.
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Replying to @HeerJeet
7. Think of the Godfather: his power is not just based on violence but also in providing services to local community.
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Replying to @HeerJeet
8. The mafia boss is the padrone. He looks after the little people. He helps you and when the time comes you support him against his enemies
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Replying to @HeerJeet
9. Mafia-style governance flourishes in marginalized (often immigrant) communities where centralized state is distrusted or distant.
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10. The mafia boss both provides services (in good times) but can also threaten violence (when things get rough).
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Replying to @HeerJeet
11. Ford-as-gangster explains both his style of governance (small favors for those who call), his base (in marginal communities) & loyalty.
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Replying to @HeerJeet
12. Loyalty is key to the mafia boss system: you have to stick with the padrone no matter what.
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