A casino (from the Latin cazino) is a gambling establishment that houses various types of gambling games. In modern times, casinos typically add other luxuries to attract customers such as restaurants, free drinks and stage shows. But even without these amenities, a casino can still be called a casino if it offers a wide variety of gambling activities.
In addition to the obvious security cameras, casinos use a variety of technological methods to monitor the games themselves. For example, a special type of chip tracking technology allows casinos to oversee the exact amount wagered minute-by-minute and warn them immediately of any statistical deviation from expected results; and roulette wheels are electronically monitored regularly for any abnormalities. Video cameras also provide a high-tech “eye-in-the-sky” to watch every table and window change.
In the early days of casinos, organized crime figures controlled many of them. However, as the industry grew and legitimate businessmen realized the profits to be made, mob influence faded. Now, the largest casino chains own numerous properties and are careful to keep any taint of mob connection out of their marketing. Even so, casino owners have to beware of mobsters with deep pockets that may try to buy out their operations at any time. Also, studies show that compulsive gambling generates a disproportionate share of the profits and thus dilutes any positive economic benefits that casinos bring to a community. For this reason, some critics claim that casinos actually do more harm than good.