Roman Anti-Gambling Measures

Examination of Chinese Gambling Problems through a Socio-Historical-Cultural Perspective

“…Cato attempted to restrict gaming by dice to adults only because it was thought that the young should be out in the fields practicing their military skills. For military training, there was a senatorial decree banning wagers except on one's own skill in throwing the spear, running, jumping, wrestling, or boxing [30]. However, it was suspected that these restrictions were neither enforceable nor enforced [30].…”

“…For military training, there was a senatorial decree banning wagers except on one's own skill in throwing the spear, running, jumping, wrestling, or boxing [30]. However, it was suspected that these restrictions were neither enforceable nor enforced [30]. The laws entitled Lex Cornelia, Lex Publicia, and Lex Titia also forbade gambling of dice, and the offenders could be sent to jail or fined.…”

“…Conversely, if the slave or minor were the loser, suit might be brought by master or parent to recover the sum. As part of the measure for problem gambling, Ulpian proclaimed that it was illegal for anyone who used force to compel another to play dice [30].…”

“…Superstition is another factor, indeed, that may increase the propensity for excessive gambling. Many Chinese believe that one's success and wealth depends on fate, luck, Feng Shui (certain architectural styles that could affect one's fortune), and/or accumulation of good deeds [30]. According to the Analects of Confucius, life and death are a matter of fate; riches and poverty depend on heaven.…”