Gambling, or “gaming,” is betting money on any game or event. It takes a variety of forms, from nickel-and-dime poker to state-sponsored lotteries. Different forms of gambling are legal in different parts of the United States.
Americans disagree on the extent to which the government should control or prohibit gambling. Some people claim that gambling is a dangerous and potentially addictive habit that can harm people emotionally and socially as well as financially. Some religions discourage gambling as well. Others say that for most people, gambling is a harmless form of entertainment. They argue that legalized gambling can actually benefit the economy without causing serious social problems.