The Science of Human Behaviour
The thought-provoking keynote address was delivered by Kristen Berman, co-founder of Irrational Labs, a non-profit behavioural consulting company located in San Francisco, USA. Her presentation, The Behavioural Science Behind Addiction, shed light on the difficulties we face in getting people to opt into what is good for them. Through various food-related examples, Berman captivated her audience and bridged the concept to the difficulties of gambling responsibly, setting the stage for two days of discussion on the topic.
Over the course of the conference, delegates were provided with a number of stimulating breakout sessions led by distinguished professionals such as Dr. Sally Gainsbury of New South Wales; Australia, Dr. Michael Wohl, professor at Carleton Univerisity in Ottawa; and BCLC’s new Director of Social Responsibility, Dr. Kahlil Philander. Themes such as the stigma associated with problem gambling and communicating responsibly provided attendees with plenty to deliberate as the conference unfolded.
New for 2015, New Horizons delegates were invited to watch and participate in “The Great Debate” to resolve whether “gambling providers should do more to prevent problem gambling.” The powerful discussion was moderated by BCLC’s Paul Smith, retiring director of social responsibility, and arguments provided by both the affirmative and negative parties captivated the audience.