In many cases reality not only does not but cannot precede an articulate representation; that exercise, therefore, shapes a reality where before there was just inert matter. In the absence of clear-cut evidence, when truth that matters to us is the only one available, it points to a truth. One might question whether Don Peppe is a real mafioso or simply a preposterous braggart. Who, however, would be willing to call his bluff? Presumably only another, even more "real" mafioso.

XREF: Echoes the social-constructionist and performativity traditions (e.g., speech act theory, Butler's performativity) where naming or representing brings realities into being.

Diego Gambetta, The Sicilian Mafia The Busi…, loc. 377