That's it in a nutshell. Fear of the Mafia is based on the myth of Mafia invincibility--the myth that they will avenge any slight, track down any transgressor, get away with any murder, corrupt any public official..

Not any more. Today's Mafia does bring in considerable money in various rackets, and does wield political power in some areas. But the quality of leadership has declined since the Commission case and the various strike forces put the old timers away and busted the myth of Mafia invincibility. Today's leaders, and especially recruits, are more of Cosa Mia than Cosa Nostra. They turn rat at the slightest pressure. Not many are afraid of the Mob anymore.