Whiz Mob: A Correlation of the Technical Argot of Pickpockets with Their Behavior Pattern / Edition 222

by David W. Maurer

Overview

Whiz Mob is David W. Maurer's classic study of the world of pickpockets. Similar to his best-known work, The Big Con, in Whiz Mob Maurer explains the colorful expressions and vivid words used by pickpockets and uses them to provide a window into the life and experiences of the professional criminal. Although he is quick to point out that he never had any actual experience on the racket, Maurer spent many years interviewing pickpockets and learning about their way of life. The result is a fascinating look at the work, lives, morals, and dangers of this element of the criminal subculture. Whiz Mob is essential reading for sociologists, linguists, and everyone interested in the mystery and intrigue of the criminal underworld.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780742533516
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	06/01/1964
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	222
Sales rank:	322,881
Product dimensions:	5.58(w) x 8.48(h) x 0.69(d)

About the Author

David W. Maurer was a well-known linguist and professor at the University of Louisville for many years. His other books include Kentucky Moonshine, an examination of the language of moonshiners, and The Big Con, which was the basis for the Academy Award winning movie, The Sting.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 The Nature of Professional Crime Chapter 3 The Pickpocket and Legitimate Society Chapter 4 The Place of the Pickpocket in the Underworld Chapter 5 Usage Levels of the Pickpocket Chapter 6 The Act of Theft Chapter 7 Different Types of Mobs Chapter 8 The Mark Chapter 9 Money and Valuables Chapter 10 The Thief and the Law Chapter 11 Skills and Training Chapter 12 Places to Work Chapter 13 Ethics and Morals Chapter 14 The Word-Finder List