An Unsafe Bet? (eBook)

Jim Orford is Emeritus Professor of Clinical and Community Psychology at the University of Birmingham. He is the author of several books on addictions including Excessive Appetites (1985, 2001), Community Psychology (1992, 2008) and, with colleagues, Gambling and Problem Gambling in Britain (2003).

Preface.

Section I: Gambling is Growing.

1. The Extraordinary International Growth of Gambling.

2. The Rise of Gambling in Britain.

Section II: Gambling is Dangerous.

3. Gambling Addiction.

4. Modern Addiction Theory Applied to Gambling.

5. Does the Fault Lie in the Person or in the Product?

Section III: Gambling is Controversial.

6. Discourses of Gambling: ElevenWays of Talking About the
Subject.

7. Public Attitudes Towards Gambling Are Negative.

8. The Costs and Benefits of Gambling for Society: A Hotly
Contested Subject.

Section IV: Gambling Expansion is Not Being
Challenged.

9. Governments Are Complicit in Supporting the Interests of the
Gambling Industry.

10. Trapped: The Disempowering Effects of Failure to Challenge
the Growth of Gambling.

11. Conclusions and Recommendations: The DebateWe Should be
Having.

Sources.

References.

Index.

"Gambling pervades society - from online
gamblers, casino regulars and betting office
punters to those buying lottery tickets and scratch cards.
This book explores the extent of gambling and opens a debate
on the crucially important topic of its effects on society.
The author is an internationally respected leader in his field
- I can think of nobody better qualified to produce a work
which will no doubt have a profound influence in policy terms and
at the same time be a 'good read'."

--Professor Roy Light, Director of Research, Bristol
Law School, UK

"There is growing interest in this topic internationally,
coinciding with continued expansion of gambling and increased
awareness of individual and societal harms associated with some
gambling forms. Jim Orford has a solid understanding of the UK
situation and its international context, and writes in a clear,
interesting manner. His singular, coherent presentation will help
inform public and political debate regarding gambling
policy."

--Professor Max Abbott, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean,
Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University
of Technology