This key study is the result of years of teaching and research by Professor TJ Cheng at the University of Macau. His knowledge of Macau which is the world's gambling capital larger than Las Vegas in absolute money terms, has afforded him to the opportunity to analyse both the personal and social impact of gambling. This bold and far-sighted work attempts to analyze gambling behaviour in a systematic, all-round and multi-perspective manner. All facets of gambling are discussed including culture, history, economics, legality, human health and the Chinese experience. In putting forward the notion of a "Sociology of Gambling" Professor Cheng weaves many strands of a complex field and offers both an interesting and scientific understanding of the subject. This book will appeal to students of China, sociology and gambling as well as policy makers and industry professionals involved with the gambling industry.