GAMBLING AS A CONTINGENCY OF NORM

Abstract

The study of deviance appears to be fragmented and chaotic given the lack of a conceptual framework that can encompass all the manifestations of deviance. To resolve this situation, Meier called for further conceptual work in the area of norms. This paper is then a response to Meier's call. A closer look is taken on the concept of norm, specifically the aspect of normative contingencies. The context within which an act is judged to be normal or deviant, suggested that normative contingencies be taken into account when defining and identifying norms. Thus, normative contingencies reveal how persons or societies create working moralities. I have tried to ground the "theory" of normative contingencies by focusing on moderation and charity as they surface in gambling. It is then found that the boundaries of a contingency is more narrow for the poor and for those with a religion. The study is based on a purposive sample of twenty-four women gamblers.