Casinos and the Theory of Social Conflict

The gambling industry is one of the sectors in the society which is observed to be continuously expanding. Gambling establishments such as casinos are reported to be prevalent in developed as well as developing countries. The increasing popularity of gambling is believed to be driven by the development of advanced technologies including any wireless communication systems such as the Internet.

The term "casino" was defined as an establishment that allows visitors to play different gambling games. Some of the most prominent gambling games in casinos are roulette, slot machines and card games such as blackjack and backgammon. At the present days, casinos are believed to be one of the entertainment and recreational establishments that are proven to be profitable.

The common perception towards casinos is that these establishments are harmful to individuals as well as to the society. Advocates of casinos argue that they play an important role in the economy of a community, however, social analysts still tried to prove that casinos have negative social consequences.

The social conflict theory as developed by economist and social analyst Karl Marx, believe that money is the instrument that causes disorders in the society. Due to the differing interests of the different classes in a community, those who held the economic power were able to abuse those who are economically-disadvantaged people. Hence, people in the lower classes, by any means, seek to enhance their wealth or financial state.

One of the common ways that were seen by people to increase their money is through gambling. Since casinos are accessible to anyone and offer a wide range of gambling games, people hoping to enhance their wealth are consistently visiting these establishments. Their regular visits to the casinos may improve their finances or lead them to unexpected financial debts.

When gamblers suffer from terrible financial loses, they tend to resort to any ways of solving their bankruptcy, including theft, identity fraud, and being involved in drug trafficking. These acts may not be harmful to some people but it is definitely threatening to the stability of the society as well as to the social structure.

Theft, identity fraud and drug trafficking are considered major violations and are qualified as social problems. Because communities prioritize the safety of their residents and jurisdiction, they allocate a great amount of public finance to solving these crimes, crimes that may not be present if not for the addiction of gamblers to casinos.

It is true that gambling and casinos play significant functions in the society. However, people's perception towards casinos will not be enhanced if problem gamblers still do not realize the threats they posed to the whole society. The bottom line here is that gamblers are the one responsible for the possible harms that casinos cause to communities.