The Syndicate Considered

It seems that the Underworld has a sort of core, or core structure. As would be the case with any group that is semi-secret, or has something to hide, that core structure is more or less opaque to that which is outside itself, but can still, perhaps, be understood by thoughtful students of human nature. I think that the word Syndicate is appropriate here.

By common usage, the word syndicate refers to a person who is a "delegate of a corporation," or better, a "business partner." But the etymology of the word -- a very old word -- is that of "speaking the same thing," the idea of a close coordination of conscious intent. A coordinated group of men planning and working to the same -- in this case ulterior -- purpose.

Do syndicates exist? Undoubtedly they do. They are variously called corporations, clubs, businesses, unions, lodges -- even religious orders and synagogues and churches. They may be mostly benign, and even beneficial.

But are there syndicates in the Underworld? If the answer is yes, then that syndicate is not benign.

There is at least one real Syndicate in the real Underworld.

That fact will give rise to some interesting questions that must have real answers.

* * *

There is more to be said on the nature of syndicates, but this is a start.

<= RH, December 15, 2011 >