Consider the words of Thomas R. O'Brien, formerly Director of Gaming Enforcement for the state of New Jersey. According to chief regulator of the industry, gambling was not only a drug, but a mind-altering drug. O'Brien's words cry out for caution. Mind-altering substances must not be administered recklessly. Yet no physicians or pharmacists control the dispensing of this substance.
Limits come with prohibition, or through personally imposed controls.
Where governments do not prohibit, the majority can exercise self-control. Seventy-five percent gamble responsibly. They find it an entertaining diversion. But another 20 percent overindulge. They incur debts that impair abilities to support their families, unless they stop.