Against the Rules with Michael Lewis
Natasha Schüll on the Antisocial Lure of Gambling
Jan 28, 2025
Natasha Schüll, an NYU associate professor and anthropologist, spent over a decade studying slot machine gamblers in Las Vegas. She reveals that many players actually loathe winning, exploring how the digital transformation of gambling has made all forms of betting feel more solitary. Schüll discusses the isolating experience of casino gaming despite promotional messages of social interaction, and how this underscores the addictive design of modern gambling technologies, including mobile apps that particularly lure younger users.
30:40
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Quick takeaways
- Natasha Schüll reveals that many slot machine gamblers are seeking an escape from reality rather than the thrill of winning.
- The evolution of digital gambling technologies has transformed player experiences, making gambling more accessible and solitary, heightening addiction risks.
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