Good observations and questions. Gambling, addiction, whatever this is - they all seem very similar to me. Humans are irrational and can be taken advantage of.

Good observations and questions. Gambling, addiction, whatever this is - they all seem very similar to me. Humans are irrational and can be taken advantage of. It is akin to human software being hacked. However, I think this principle extends far - most of society is largely like this on different levels. Even the process of democracy and voting revolves around politicians deceiving people and providing fantasies. Manipulating human behaviour is becoming more of a known science over time. The idea that it is a solution to have the state be like a powerful parent and protect people from themselves bothers me greatly. I suppose the game must play out; there will be winners and losers, and natural selection will march onward...