Thread

1. ecshafer · 1790700742 · focus · HN ↗

   Legalizing sports betting and online gambling was such a massive mistake. They are sleazy immoral industries that profit on suffering.

   1. jimt1234 · 1790703023 · focus · HN ↗

      In my lifetime I've witnessed America accept new revenue sources by relaxing the moral code. First, it was allowing businesses to be open on Sunday. Then it was allowing liquor sales on Sunday. Then it was liquor ads on television. Then it was very controlled, state-run gambling (the lottery). Then it was casino gambling. Now it's online gambling and 'prediction markets'. Then it was recreational marijuana use. And so on. My point of reference is Missouri, where I grew up, but I think most states have followed a pretty similar path, all in search of new sources of revenue. I predict this trend will continue all the way to prostitution. Yes, that sounds crazy, but if you would've told me in the early-80s that Missouri would have casinos and legal weed, I would've considered that crazy.

      1. mcmcmc · 1790704609 · focus · HN ↗

         Sorry but Sunday blue laws are religious discrimination. It’s just a day and businesses shouldn’t be restricted by a single religious sect. Gambling and substance abuse are actual public health issues.

         1. elevation · 1790747793 · focus · HN ↗

            I once observed ill-conceived online campaign to combat high gas prices by organizing a one-day boycott from purchasing gas. The intent was to send a message to oil suppliers. The problem is that not buying gas on Monday means drivers will just buy more gas on Tuesday -- delaying consumption instead of reducing it.

            Blue laws are similar; they delay but do not reduce consumption. However, they have a fantastic pro-social side effect in that they allow workers in affected businesses a day off.

            To this end, I would love to see a mid sized municipality experiment with raising minimum wage 10x one day a week and see what kind of culture develops around that.

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