What is paisan?

Paisan, meaning "countryman" or "fellow villager" in Italian dialects, refers to a complex of social connections and reciprocal obligations prevalent in Southern Italy. It embodies a strong sense of regional or village identity and loyalty.

• It emphasizes kinship, friendship, and shared experiences as the foundation for mutual aid and support. This system often operates outside formal institutions, providing a safety net in areas where government services are lacking.

• Paisanismo can manifest as preferential treatment for those within one's network. This can be seen in areas of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Social%20Networks">Social Networks</a>, favoritism in business dealings, or seeking assistance from those with local connections.

• While offering benefits within a defined group, paisanismo can also contribute to <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Nepotism">Nepotism</a>, corruption, and the fragmentation of society by prioritizing particularistic loyalties over broader civic responsibilities.

• The concept is rooted in the historical circumstances of Southern Italy, including poverty, political instability, and a lack of trust in state institutions. Migration patterns often see "paisani" clustering together in new locations, maintaining their bonds and mutual support networks.

• While sometimes romanticized as a source of community solidarity, paisanismo is also a subject of criticism for its potential to hinder <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Social%20Mobility">Social Mobility</a> and undermine meritocratic principles.