YSU LECTURE SERIES Presentation to focus on organized crime

Staff report

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Fred Viehe, professor of American Urban History at Youngstown State University, presents “Characteristics of American Organized Crime” as part of the YSU Alumni Lecture Series at 7 p.m. July 12 in the Trustees Meeting Room in Tod Hall on the YSU campus.

Cost is $5 for members of the YSU Alumni Society and $7 for nonmembers. RSVP by Friday to Heather Belgin at habelgin@ysu.edu or 330-941-1591.

Viehe has taught and researched the history of organized crime for more than 20 years. He will discuss the role of primitive attitudes and behavior concerning American organized crime and the underworld’s significant involvement in hedonistic culture.

Organized-criminal groups historically have structured themselves according to archaic values to maintain ethnicity as the main foundation for social organization.

To enforce their atavism, they have used excessive violence against those who do not share their values.

At the same time, American organized crime has attempted to fulfill two major goals: maintain a past social structure and pursue a hedonistic future.

Other programs in the series include:

Sept. 20: “X-Planes and Hypersonic Transport,” Peyman Givi.

Oct. 18: “Competing in the Global Market: Opportunities for Regional Businesses,” panel discussion.

Oct. 24: “Public Protection: The Role of Certification and Licensure From a National Perspective of 25 Years in Emergency Medical Services,” William E. Brown Jr.

For information, visit the YSU Alumni and Events Management website.