THE BETTING HABIT.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 5129, 23 May 1927, Page 3

THE BETTING HABIT.

NO LEGITIMATE TRANSACTION. SOMETHING FOR NOTHING. “In any legitimate transaction there is a benefit to both parties; in btetting, one of the parties gains without giving anything in return. It is hardly convincing to argue that the loser has the excitement of the bet. The fact that the loser agrees to pay if ihe loses differentiates betting from stealing, but does not affect the main issue. It is right to get money by giving something equivalent, in work or otherwise, or by receiving a gift. But betting means getting something for nothing; it is gain through the loss of another. The habit may begin in the first instance as an expression of the sporting, adventurous spirit, which in itself is good and capable of healthy expression. But the value of the readiness to take risks depends upon the .object for which the risk is taken. Betting is also often due to the legitimate desire for the introduction of the spice of excitement and interest into a drab and monotonous life. It is hard to blame those whose lives are starved of colour and interest if they seek it in what may be the easiest way open to them. But this is no real defence of the practice, but rather an additional reason for seeking to build a social order which will provide a healthier outlet for the spirit of adventure. For most of us such outlets are available in plenty.”—From “Christ and Money.” by the Rev. Hugh Martin. M.A.