Reflections on Responsibility

Abstract

In recent years, discourses of responsibility have, along with the proliferation of gambling and problem gambling itself, become increasingly prevalent throughout Western nations. The concept, which originates in notions of power and morality, has been appropriated by a range of stakeholders who utilize it in particular ways. But what exactly does this concept—responsibility—mean? This question takes us to the heart of the issue, as the core concepts tend to be vague and characterized by an apolitical acceptance of the assumptions that underlie them. At its heart, the notion of responsibility is based on possession of power and implies accountability—“to another for something”—so much so that the idea of responsibility without power is virtually meaningless. It also possesses a moralizing element—“morally accountable for one’s actions.” Responsible behavior is also appropriate behavior for which the individual can be held to account: can be blamed or praised for. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)