Conceal but Reveal, Illegal but not against Social Norms: Views on Gambling in Isan Society
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Abstract
For Thai society, “gambling” is a term that is often represented in a negative way that is both legal and illegal at the same time, while being a vice with a moral dimension. Many types of gambling can be played and easily accessible until they have become normal in society. This paper presents the perspectives of gambling from 51 case studies in Khon Kaen province. Qualitative research was conducted by using an in-depth interview technique, focus group discussion, and non-participant observation. The research result was framed by practice theory. It was found that the perspectives on gambling of each person are different. Certain types of gambling, especially underground lottery, are common in the view of the villagers. It has been in daily life for a long time, and most lottery buyers think that it does not affect them in a negative way. Some forms of gambling embedded in cultural traditions are acceptable, while gambling in the form of going to the casino is evil in the eyes of the general public. Many types of gambling have always been hidden activities in society. The definitions and perspectives on gambling depend on the socio-cultural and social norms of individual groups. In their views, many forms of gambling are illegal but not against social norms.
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