Considering the Ethics of Public Claims: An Appeal for Scientific Maturity

Compared with the more mature scientific areas of inquiry, the study of gambling related phenomena is a relatively young field. Consequently, scientists and clinicians have countless opportunities to develop new areas of research and treatment approaches. Immature fields like gambling studies also provide the opportunities for quasiscientists and even charlatans to influence the public, policy makers and perhaps themselves to thinking that their “evidence” supports a particular treatment, causal relationship or public policy. The Wild West had its snake oil salesmen and the field of gambling studies is no different. However, there are ethical guidelines to shape and direct the nature and form of public statements made by scientists and clinicians who are members of professional organizations. For example, within the United States, the American Psychological Association, American Sociological Association, the American Association of University Pro-