Gambling... ... an issue?

While it has been empirically proven that gambling activities create social problems, personal issues and increased crime rates, it has been also been proven to have a positive effect on its locality. While the ‘battle’ between ‘good’ and ‘evil’ shall exist for all humanity, the arguments justifying the legalization of gambling shall similarly never cease. Thus during the process of deciding, governmental leaders and representatives from all reaches of society need to sit down together for a rational, pragmatic and open discussion. The search for a balance would be hard, but maintaining that crucial and delicate balance would be harder. From a personal perspective, I see gambling activities as an acceptable source of revenue and entertainment, but consistent governmental efforts must be present for the maintaining of social and civic order.

The gambling industry is known to be a labour-intensive business, this not only creates jobs for the populace, but helps improve opportunities and benefits as well. Furthermore, in light of inflation and tax increases, further provoked with lowered corporate taxes, gaming licences and taxation could offer a cushion for both the people and the national economy. Casinos further strengthen a nation’s tourism industry, from food and beverages outlets to international appeal. This second perspective offered represents a ‘larger picture’, where social issues are viewed from a ‘national collective angle’, and not from a ‘macro perspective’. In general, governmental bodies could use revenue collected from casinos to further improve national investments and wealth, infrastructure, and also social and civic responsibilities. Gambling per say, could not be blamed for any ‘harm’ nor ‘costs’ to individuals, families and society because it is a personal decision. In addition, with a proper educating systems and warnings in place, gambling as a vice becomes similar to cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking. Thus from a long term perspective, gambling incurred revenue not only offers the nation and her population with the opportunities to see an increase to infrastructure, that could ‘trickle down’ to benefit them, it also helps increase awareness of possible threats and harm to excessive gambling.

From an opposing viewpoint, statistics have shown that an introduction of casino gambling in an environment where it was previously unavailable would result in an increase in both crime and corruption. This heavily researched fact has been brought to the attention of policy makers, non-profit organizations, and agencies designed for society’s betterment, resulting in a stronger voice in casino condemnation. No parent would feel safe if his child had to grow up in an environment where thefts lingered in back alleys, nor would any decent police officer join ranks with corrupt officials. Furthermore, vices such as prostitution and illegal money lending might increase in numbers, further creating opportunities for crime and corruption. While these facts are undeniable, they are not entirely unpreventable. Like the mosquito, crime and corruption requires a proper breeding environment before it could occur. A strong and rigid infrastructure in place prior to the introduction of casinos would significantly help reduce the effects of crime and corruption. Proper social education could also help alleviate the probability of criminals creating instability. Most importantly, it must be emphasized that gambling as a vice or addiction results from an individual’s inability to withstand temptation, personal responsibility takes precedence in decision making.

While gambling offers recreational excitement, many other activities offer similar heart pulsing and sweaty palmed thrills. Sports of almost any calibre usually stand as the greatest example of such activities. In conclusion, while ethical and social issues have a tendency to increase along with the introduction of casinos and gambling activities, there are various factors propelling an opposing viewpoint. Firstly, the individual’s decision to indulge in vices such as gambling. Secondly, a social ‘safety net’ created to educate, guide and help gamblers; this is usually a governmental initiative. Thirdly, the economic-stimulation offered by casinos in job-creation opportunities, as well as revenue and charity. The government’s ability to work openly and consistently with casino corporations and social communities also serve as a crucial factor in the maintaining and balancing of gambling activities. Personal decisions and personal choices are each and everyone’s individual responsibility.