Sports Betting Shows the Practical Limits of Libertarianism

In the latest issue of National Review magazine (perhaps you’ve heard of it), I argue that the mainstreaming of sports betting has had many costs that proponents and beneficiaries have not properly accounted for.

Legalization in 39 states and Washington, D.C., has put more money into play — leading to more money being lost by more people. Sports themselves, moreover, at the professional and collegiate levels (and perhaps even at lower levels) are becoming tainted by their wanton association with the practice. Coaches and athletes are subject to harassment and dark speculation when they frustrate the bets that are made on their teams.

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Jack Butler

Jack Butler is a former submissions editor at National Review.

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In the latest issue of National Review magazine (perhaps you’ve heard of it), I argue that the mainstreaming of sports betting has had many costs that proponents and beneficiaries have not properly accounted for.

Legalization in 39 states and Washington, D.C., has put more money into play — leading to more money being lost by more people. Sports themselves, moreover, at the professional and collegiate levels (and perhaps even at lower levels) are becoming tainted by their wanton association with the practice. Coaches and athletes are subject to harassment and dark speculation when they frustrate the bets that are made on their teams.