Summary
The United States has struggled with its gambling policy since colonial days, and its legal stance has alternated between legalization and prohibition. Today, many forms of gambling are legal, and most Americans bet at least occasionally. Many people believe, however, that the recent rush to legalize gambling has turned millions of Americans into pathological gamblers. They blame a variety of problems, including crime, broken families, and the exploitation of the poor, on legalization. Defenders contend that gambling’s negative consequences have been exaggerated and that most Americans bet responsibly. They also warn that prohibition will not stop gambling but instead turn the gambling business over to organized criminals. Legalized Gambling explains how the debate over gambling has become more intense in recent years because of the proliferation of online casinos and the popularity of illegal sports betting.
Specifications
Full-color and black-and-white photographs. Elements of the argument. Appendix. Resources. Sidebars. Notes. Index.
About the Author(s)
Paul Ruschmann, J.D., is a legal analyst and writer based in Canton, Michigan. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and his law degree from the University of Michigan. A member of the State Bar of Michigan, he specializes in legislation, public safety, traffic and transportation, and trade regulation. He is also the author of several other titles in Chelsea House's Point/Counterpoint series, including Legalizing Marijuana, The War on Terror, Media Bias, Tort Reform, and Miranda Rights.