Throughout time, gambling has had a lengthy and contentious history. Evidence from history and ethnography indicates that the organization, societal interpretations, and moral assessments of gambling have significantly differed across various societies (Binde, 2005).
From the guards who gambled for Jesus’ clothes to the establishment of Las Vegas, and now with the emergence of online gambling, this subject has generated both approval and disapproval. When approached responsibly, gambling can offer amusement and even benefits. However, it can pose a significant issue for certain individuals.
Gambling is an extremely addictive activity that can have severe consequences for individuals who develop an addiction. Those who gamble may end up losing their savings, homes, relationships, and might even turn to crime as a result. In this essay, I will explore different forms of gambling, the ethical dilemmas it presents, its impact on society, and how classical theory could offer potential solutions. Additionally, I will examine the application of relativism to this issue and provide my personal perspective. Various options for gambling are available including lottery games, horse racing, dog racing, sports betting, bingo, casino gambling and the increasingly popular online gambling.
The worldwide popularity of gambling results in billions of dollars being bet annually. This phenomenon is not restricted to conventional gambling hubs such as Las Vegas, as casinos have emerged in different states throughout the United States. Furthermore, Indian reservations, coastal areas, and cruise ships offer their own gambling possibilities. In addition to these choices, underground betting establishments and informal gambling among friends also contribute to the extensive realm of gambling.
Living close to the border of Michigan and Canada gives me convenient access to casinos in Sarnia and Windsor, Ontario. Additionally, gambling options have expanded beyond traditional forms with many states offering lotteries and online platforms providing various opportunities. The ease of gambling has made it accessible for nearly everyone on a daily basis. Sports bettors commonly rely on bookies while individuals often participate in betting pools for weekly football games, basketball tournaments, and other occasions. Even during the Super Bowl, there are betting squares where participants predict the game’s score.
The accessibility and simplicity of sports gambling make it widespread, raising ethical concerns. Although it can be thrilling and enjoyable, it also poses risks of irresponsible behavior and loss of control. Nonetheless, it is crucial to acknowledge the existence of responsible gamblers.
There are people who engage in occasional or regular lottery ticket purchases and playing the same numbers. Some of them also go to casinos, using their extra money and being aware that they might lose it. However, if they win or at least break even, they find it exciting or profitable without any financial loss. They have a specific time limit for their casino visits and always leave regardless of the outcome. In my opinion, there are not many individuals who disapprove of responsible and recreational gambling.
The problem arises when winning in any form of gambling becomes addictive, leading to our problem. Numerous individuals develop an addiction to the feeling of winning and are unable to cease gambling. There have been instances of people losing their life savings, college funds, cars, houses, and families due to their inability to stop gambling, even when they consistently lose. They thrive on the exhilaration of winning and perpetually anticipate regaining what they have lost.
Some of these reckless bettors resort to criminal activities in order to obtain additional funds for gambling. Such individuals have been known to steal from their loved ones and acquaintances, engage in embezzlement, and unlawfully acquire items for sale. Various organizations, including gambling support groups, church groups, and government assistance programs, extend their aid to these individuals.
Supporters of gambling argue that it provides an enjoyable and thrilling experience, with the excitement of anticipation and the satisfaction of winning. Furthermore, gambling generates substantial revenue for governments and fosters job growth in various establishments, particularly casinos. The presence of a casino can attract tourists, benefiting nearby businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers. Consequently, this can result in increased employment opportunities and boosted property values, leading to higher sales tax revenues.
The profits generated by casinos are purportedly allocated to honorable causes like education, healthcare, law enforcement, firefighting, and infrastructure. Advocates argue that the majority of individuals engage in responsible gambling and that addiction affects only a small proportion of the population. Numerous Indian reservations, where casinos are situated, have experienced growth and provided opportunities for employment to their inhabitants, leading to an appreciation in property values. Native American tribes perceive casinos as a means to escape poverty and unemployment. For instance, Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, Connecticut holds the distinction of being the state’s second-largest employer. (Oddo, 1997)
Opponents of gambling argue that the funds raised do not always go towards the mentioned noble causes, as they are often diverted elsewhere, resulting in only a portion reaching their intended destination. Considering the substantial number of lottery tickets being purchased daily and the state of our roads and schools in Michigan, it seems that the critics may have a valid point. They also highlight an increase in crime rates within proximity of gambling establishments, with activities such as prostitution, loan sharking, theft, and embezzlement coming to mind.
According to Anderson and Kirby (2005), casinos frequently divert disposable income from other forms of entertainment, which is seen as negative. Furthermore, they argue that legalized gambling is an unfavorable government policy as it encourages citizens to engage in state-sponsored vice instead of promoting public virtue. Thus, the minister who authored this article suggests that the government should prioritize keeping money within its citizens’ pockets rather than endorsing lotteries and legalizing gambling.
Millions of compulsive gamblers not only suffer financially but also experience marital, alcohol, or drug abuse issues, as well as family and social problems, causing their lives to be crushed due to addiction. Additionally, the gambling world is closely linked to organized crime.
Opponents argue that casinos, sports books, and race tracks are often associated with negative events. They claim that communities are promised lower taxes and significant economic growth when these establishments are introduced, but this is not always the case. Atlantic City, New Jersey serves as a prominent example of such a situation.
The boardwalk casino area is known for its high crime rates and low property values, which have only worsened since the construction of the casinos. Consequently, taxes in this area have risen. To address this issue, it appears most suitable to apply a classical theory such as virtue ethics. Unlike utilitarianism and deontology, virtue ethics offers a unique approach.
Instead of considering the outcomes, reasons, or rules associated with an action we want to assess, virtue ethics concentrates on the integrity of the individual performing the action. Therefore, virtue ethics aims to identify what constitutes a virtuous person rather than determining what makes an action good. (Mosser, 2010 Sec 1.7). In my opinion, the issue ultimately revolves around the individual.
People possess varying capacities for responsible gambling, perceiving it as either a potent allure or an enjoyable pastime. The key determinant is one’s attitude towards it. Should you partake in gambling with the intention of deriving pleasure and the possibility of triumph, while not anticipating perpetual success or establishing personal boundaries, the likelihood of fostering addiction may rise. Nevertheless, this consequence further hinges on your individuality and susceptibility to addictive tendencies.
In order to make consistently sound decisions, it is advised to consider what is appropriate for you, your family, and your specific situation. However, it must be acknowledged that this approach may not apply universally due to relativism. Relativism suggests that beliefs and values are influenced by society, culture, or personal values. As a result, different viewpoints often emerge within certain groups or cultures rather than on an individual level. For example, many religious individuals firmly believe that gambling is inherently immoral regardless of responsible behavior.
Although there are those who claim that gambling is connected to criminal activity and temptation, others with a more lenient perspective or lacking strong religious beliefs argue that gambling can be morally permissible under any circumstances. They provide evidence suggesting that crime occurs universally and as long as one can responsibly manage the urge to gamble, it may not lead to complications.
While gambling is viewed positively by some Indians for its positive effects on reservation value and job creation, it does not fully solve the problem. Nevertheless, there are two sides that coexist and respect each other’s perspectives, acknowledging that there is no definitive right or wrong answer. Personally, I do not expect to change my opinion on gambling.
I personally engage in the timeless activity of gambling, which I enjoy. My participation includes visiting the casino, playing the lottery, and betting on football games. However, I make sure to maintain control over my gambling habits and prevent them from taking over my life. I do not feel an urge to recover any losses or have unrealistic expectations of winning every time I place a bet. It is important for me to understand that being irresponsible can lead to negative consequences in different areas of life, such as engaging in reckless driving or excessive drinking.
Irresponsible gambling, along with activities such as sexual activity, drug use, child-rearing, and work, can result in negative consequences. However, when approached responsibly with self-imposed limits, gambling can be a pleasurable and exhilarating pastime. Conversely, irresponsible gambling may lead to addiction, substance abuse, stealing for financial gain, and the loss of assets, family relationships, and self-worth. It is crucial to recognize that gambling is just one of several temptations that possess addictive qualities; others include alcoholism,
compulsive shopping,
smoking addiction,
and sex addiction.
We cannot expect closure of all bars, party stores, shopping places, and adult entertainment establishments to prevent compulsive behavior in a small portion of the population. It is our responsibility as individuals to live within our means and handle these temptations responsibly, even if seeking assistance is necessary. I do believe that the availability of internet gambling has made it too convenient to gamble. Measures must be implemented to prevent minors from accessing these websites and even to address gambling addicts who are banned from casinos or conceal their addiction from their loved ones.
The issue of internet access and regulation is crucial, encompassing multiple domains such as gambling, movies, music, pornography, ammunition, explosives, and other inappropriate content for minors. The regulation of gambling should be ongoing, whereas assistance for compulsive behaviors should extend beyond gambling and be available at no cost, with funding provided by the gambling industry.
There is currently some availability of the mentioned resources, but further development and greater promotion are necessary. Excessive gambling can be perceived as a victimless crime in certain cases, while in others it can have multiple victims. The concept of a “victimless crime” is often used to describe activities that some individuals may morally object to but are generally seen as voluntary actions (Mosser, 2007 Sec. 5.1).
In some cases, excessive gambling or significant financial losses can lead to missed car payments or even car repossession. If individuals who engage in gambling continue to do so and face such outcomes, they may only harm themselves if they have no family. However, if they have family, the consequences may be limited to losing the money they typically spend on weekend lunches with friends. These examples highlight that the person who gambles and loses is the sole victim in these situations.
According to virtue ethics, the victims arise when a family is impacted by the need to adapt transportation in the event that their car is repossessed or by having to go hungry due to lack of funds for food. The perspective supported by virtue ethics argues that as long as an individual is not causing harm to others and is trying to do the right thing by gaining control over the situation, it can be considered as victimless. Conversely, an egotist would only focus on their own best interest, seeking the exhilarating sensation of winning without considering the consequences or the individuals they may harm in case of loss.
Summing up, I have discussed various forms of gambling, such as casinos, lotteries, and online gambling websites, along with the convenience of accessing them. Both sides of the ethical concerns related to gambling and its impact on individuals have been examined. Considering the problem through the lens of virtue ethics, I have concluded that gamblers should strive to make choices that align with virtuous behavior. This entails setting limits and avoiding compulsive tendencies.
In terms of relativism, I have explained how it contrasts with the issue at hand. It is widely accepted by most individuals to peacefully coexist with differing opinions on addictive behavior. I have expressed my belief that the act of gambling is a personal decision, emphasizing the responsibility of individuals to exercise rational judgment on the amount they can risk losing. It is my view that any activity, when approached irresponsibly, will likely lead to negative outcomes.
The question of whether gambling is moral or immoral persists, knowing that it is likely to endure. Both sides of the argument will always exist, and every individual must determine their own stance. Gambling, along with activities like drinking, smoking marijuana, smoking cigarettes, and various other subjects, resides in the ethically ambiguous realm where there are advocates and contentious issues for both perspectives. Only you have the authority to judge if gambling aligns with your personal values or contradicts them.
References
- Anderson, Kirby (2005) Gambling-A Christian Perspective, Kirby Anderson. Probe Ministries Journal
- Binde, P. (2005). Gambling, exchange systems, and moralities. Journal of Gambling Studies, 21(4), 445-79. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10899-005-5558-2
- Mosser, K. (2010). Introduction to ethics and social responsibility. San Diego, Bridgepoint Education, Inc. Oddo, A. R. (1997). The economics and ethics of casino gambling. Review Of Business, 18(3), 4.
