E-Commerce Times Talkback
See Full StoryU.S. Representative Bob Goodlatte (R-Virginia), arguably the most outspoken opponent of
Internet gambling, has been trying to pass an anti-gambling bill for years. Every time
legislators or industry leaders find a problem with one of his efforts, Goodlatte revises
the bill to assure his colleagues and constitutents that the new and improved legislation
will make everyone happy. And those who disagree with efforts to ban online gambling are
left wondering about Goodlatte's motives.
A thought in response . . My work brings me into direct contact with a reality that can at times be grim. People living with problem gambling would be a great source of information for representative Goodlatte. I would also suggest, if he has not done so, to speak to counsellors skilled in finding solutions with problem gamblers. Is on line gaming here to stay? Perhaps . . however, the solutions that support people in recovery need also to be consistent with sound early intervention and prevention strategies. I have a whole whack of ideas should the congressman ask . . .even though my ideas come from a Canadian context.
Oh please...now ecommerce companies have to grow a social consciousness in addition to all their other problems - is that what you're saying? Businesses on the Internet are not responsible for people who cannot control their own demons. If an online gambling operation wants to operate then they should go for it and not have to worry about weak people who can't exercise a little restraint. Mr. Goodlatte and his cronies on the Hill need to stop trying to control how Americans spend their time and money. What ever happened to our freedom of choice? Is it going down the drain with our other civil liberties?
According to your way of thinking, the new world of Internet business should be just as negligent as the old world of traditional business. I suspect you probably support NBC television's decision to start running liquor ads on TV for the first time in 40 years. I think the Internet should definitely show more of a social consciousness than business usually shows. Gambling is just one of those many addictions that online casinos will feed. I support Goodlatte's effort to control it. Who really needs it?
While people may have good intentions, involving government and legislation in the process usually arrives at less than optimal results. People should be free to make decisions for themselves - sometimes the decisions are good and other times bad - that's called FREEDOM.
As for gambling as a business, these online operators won't survive long if they mistreat their customers or swindle them out of their winnings. Many of them know that and are working towards educating those in the industry regarding this fact.
Gambling can be entertaining, but like many things when taken to the extreme can cause harm. Do we need to legislate life?
Hi Ted. I appreciate your thoughts. I do disagree with a position that releases any buisness from operating in a responsible fashion.
Being responsible is not an excessive burden on the corporate sector, on line or otherwise. It's good business.
The "weak people" you refer to could be your neighbour, colleague, family member. I hope that your zeal for free enterprise is matched by some level of compassion for people who live with problems. Best of the holiday season to you . ..
Not sure if this will be classified as an advertisement or solicitation... but Godlatte will be on CNet Radio Tommorrow morning discussing these issues. Gaming Analyst Sebastian Sinclair will also be on the show.
Online gambling is definitely here to stay, any online gambling website operator that is based in the United States is out of its mind!
Land based casinos don't come close to the special and bonus offers of offshore online gambling websites - plus the odds are a lot better.
OK?
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