The Asante culture is an ancient culture, containing many mysterious elements whose origins remain obscure. One of such elements is the Asante Traditional Buildings, whose intricate designs and decorations caught the attention of visitors – especially Europeans – to the Asante Kingdom from the late eighteen century to the early part of the twentieth century. They were particularly impressed by the comfortable and clean houses and the extensive decoration of the walls.
These buildings served mainly as palaces, shrines houses for the powerful deities who protected the Kingdom, homes for the affluent, and finally, as mausoleums. And like all buildings of value, the structures were the result of the Asantes’ desire to achieve harmony on earth with their creator, the Supreme Being, through the mediation of the lesser deities.
Cultural Perspectives on Gambling in Australia
Australia has a rich cultural landscape that encompasses various attitudes and practices towards gambling. From the iconic horse races to the vibrant casino scenes, gambling is deeply ingrained in the Australian way of life. However, this cultural phenomenon is not without its complexities and controversies. In this article, we delve into the diverse cultural perspectives on gambling in Australia, exploring the societal attitudes, historical influences, and impact on different communities.
As we navigate through the intricate web of cultural perspectives, we will examine the role of gambling in shaping Australian identities and communities. From the allure of the pokies to the rise of online betting, the gambling landscape in Australia is constantly evolving. Join us on this journey as we unravel the cultural nuances, societal implications, and ethical considerations surrounding gambling in the land down under.
Historical Evolution of Gambling in Australia
Gambling holds a unique place in Australian culture, deeply intertwined with the country’s history and social fabric. From traditional forms like horse racing and lotteries to modern-day casinos and online betting, Australians have a long-standing relationship with gambling. It is viewed not just as a recreational activity but also as a significant part of social gatherings and entertainment.
One key cultural perspective on gambling in Australia is the acceptance and normalization of betting as a part of everyday life. Many Australians see gambling as a common pastime, with a large portion of the population engaging in various forms of betting regularly. This normalization has led to a widespread presence of gambling establishments across the country, contributing significantly to the economy but also raising concerns about problem gambling and addiction.
Moreover, gambling is often associated with Australian identity, with iconic events like the Melbourne Cup capturing the nation’s attention and participation. The social aspect of gambling, such as office sweeps during major sporting events, further emphasizes its cultural significance in bringing people together. However, there is an ongoing debate about the balance between enjoying gambling responsibly and addressing the potential harms associated with excessive gambling behavior.
Indigenous Views on Gambling Practices
In Australia, gambling is deeply ingrained in the culture and holds a significant place in the social fabric of the country. With a long history of gambling activities dating back to colonial times, Australians have developed a unique perspective on gambling that differs from many other cultures. The acceptance and normalization of gambling in Australia can be seen through the widespread presence of various forms of gambling, including sports betting, lotteries, and casino gaming.
One aspect of Australian culture that contributes to the popularity of gambling is the country’s love for sports. Australians have a strong passion for sports, and this enthusiasm often translates into a high level of engagement with sports betting. The intertwining of sports and gambling is evident in the prevalence of sports betting advertisements during sporting events and the overall acceptance of betting on various sports outcomes.
Moreover, the easy accessibility to gambling activities in Australia, both online and offline, plays a significant role in shaping cultural perspectives on gambling. The rise of online gambling platforms has made it more convenient for Australians to engage in gambling activities from the comfort of their homes. This accessibility has contributed to the normalization of gambling as a form of entertainment and social activity.
As Australians continue to embrace gambling as a part of their cultural identity, the popularity of online casinos has been on the rise. Players in Australia are increasingly turning to online casinos for their gaming needs, with many seeking out the top 10 online casino in Australia for a premium gaming experience. This trend reflects the evolving landscape of gambling in Australia and the shift towards digital platforms for entertainment and recreation.
Government Regulation and Policies on Gambling
Australia has a unique cultural perspective on gambling that is deeply ingrained in the country’s history and societal norms. Gambling is not just seen as a form of entertainment but also as a part of Australian identity and culture. From traditional forms of betting on horse races to modern-day casinos and online gambling, Australians have a long-standing relationship with wagering.
For many Australians, gambling is a social activity that brings people together, whether it’s placing bets on sporting events, playing poker with friends, or participating in sweepstakes during major racing events like the Melbourne Cup. The relaxed attitude towards gambling in Australia is reflected in the widespread availability of betting opportunities, with sports betting outlets and electronic gaming machines found in most neighborhoods.
However, the cultural perspective on gambling in Australia is not without its challenges. Problem gambling is a significant issue that affects individuals and families across the country. The easy accessibility of gambling services, combined with aggressive marketing strategies by betting companies, has raised concerns about the social impact of gambling and addiction rates in Australia.
As Australians continue to navigate the complexities of their cultural relationship with gambling, there is a growing call for responsible gambling practices and stricter regulations to protect vulnerable individuals. Balancing the enjoyment and social aspects of gambling with the need for harm minimization remains a key focus for policymakers and advocacy groups in Australia.
Social Impacts of Gambling in Australian Society
Gambling is deeply ingrained in Australian culture, with a long history of various forms of betting and wagering. In Australia, gambling is not only seen as a form of entertainment but also as a social activity that brings people together. Many Australians view gambling as a normal part of everyday life, whether it’s placing a bet on a horse race, playing the lottery, or trying their luck at a casino.
One cultural perspective on gambling in Australia is the strong link between gambling and sports. Australians have a passion for sports, and this extends to betting on sports events. The prevalence of sports betting in Australia is significant, with many people enjoying the thrill of wagering on their favorite teams and athletes. This cultural connection between sports and gambling is reflected in the widespread acceptance and participation in sports betting across the country.
Another cultural aspect of gambling in Australia is the presence of iconic gambling venues such as casinos. These establishments are not only places for gambling but also serve as entertainment hubs offering restaurants, bars, and live performances. Casinos like Crown Melbourne and The Star in Sydney have become landmarks in their respective cities, attracting both local and international visitors seeking a unique entertainment experience.
Despite the popularity of gambling in Australia, there is also a growing awareness of the potential harms associated with excessive gambling. Efforts to promote responsible gambling and provide support for problem gamblers are increasingly emphasized in the cultural discourse surrounding gambling. The balance between enjoying gambling as a leisure activity and addressing the negative impacts it can have on individuals and communities is an ongoing conversation in Australian society.
Understanding the cultural perspectives on gambling in Australia unveils a complex landscape where societal norms, historical influences, and personal beliefs intersect. From the deep-rooted traditions of Indigenous communities to the evolving attitudes in mainstream society, the relationship with gambling reflects a tapestry of values and experiences. As we navigate the diverse viewpoints and implications surrounding this issue, it becomes evident that a holistic approach is necessary to address the multifaceted impact of gambling on individuals and communities. By acknowledging and respecting these cultural perspectives, we can strive towards fostering a more informed and inclusive dialogue on gambling in Australia.
The typical house, whether designed for human habitation or for the deities, normally consists of four separate rectangular single-room buildings set around an open courtyard; the inner corners of adjacent buildings are linked by means of splayed screen walls, whose sides and angles could be adapted to allow for any inaccuracy in the initial layout. Typically, three of the buildings are completely open to the courtyard, while the fourth is partially enclosed, either by a door and windows, or by open-work screens flanking an opening.
The most striking feature of the buildings is their elaborate mural decorations. The upper walls are covered with interlacing geometrical designs, while the lower parts are boldly modelled bas-relief with a large variety of designs in red clay polished to a dull shine. The designs are frequently abstract or arabesque. Images of reptiles and other creatures like crocodiles, fish and birds also abound, amidst a profusion of plants.
It should be noted that these images were not merely ornamental. They had symbolic meanings, and the people who lived among them knew how to read and understand them perfectly. Like the Akan Adinkra symbols, wood carvings and sculptures, these pictures generally refer to Akan proverbial sayings that reflect the moral and social values of society. One of the unique cultural traits of the Asantes (who belong to the Akan ethnic linguistic group) is their widespread use of non-verbal communication. Indeed, almost every Asante activity can be expressed by means of symbols. One of the most common decorations on the Asante traditional buildings is the Sankofa bird standing with its head turned backward. It is a reminder that one needs to refer to the past, as a guide to the future.
Unfortunately, most of the masterpieces of the Asante indigenous architecture have been lost to the world, some due to warfare, especially during the 19th century, when the British destroyed most of the buildings with canons. But what really spelled the doom of the treasures of Asante heritage, was the irresistible socio-cultural and economic change of the 20th century, such as the phenomenal prosperity resulting from cocoa and gold trade and its attendant ‘modern life’. In the wake of this, ‘mud’ houses were replaced by houses made with ‘sandcrete’ blocks and corrugated aluminium. Added to this was the influx of Christian and Islamic religion, much to the neglect of these buildings, some of which were shrines of traditional religion. Lastly, the humid tropical rainforest, which has always represented a threat to earthen and wattle-daub wall and palm-thatched roofs, also took its toll on the Asante Traditional Buildings.
By the beginning of the 20th century, most of the Asante Traditional Buildings were gone. In the early 1960s, when these buildings were finally declared National Monuments, only sixteen of them still remained standing.
In 1980, UNESCO, through the World Heritage Committee, listed the Asante Traditional Buildings as one of the cultural properties of the world, after seeing that they satisfied the requirements of the World Heritage Convention, being ‘rare surviving examples of the significant traditional architectural style, that of the influential, powerful and wealthy Asante Kingdom’.
Currently, only ten of these buildings are standing, and all of them are ‘shrine houses’. Nine of them are within a thirty-five kilometre radius of Kumasi, the seat of Asanteman, the Asante Kingdom. These buildings include:
- Yaw Tano Shrine at Ejisu-Besease. Also known as Tano Yaw Shrine, This Shrine House is at Besease, about 20.8 km on the Kumasi-Accra road.
- Akwasi Sima Shrine at Adarkwa Jachie. Also known as Kwasi Kuma Shrine, this Asante traditional building is about 16 km on the Kumasi-Ejisu road.
- Tano Abenamu Subunu Shrine at Abirem. Abirem is about 12.8 km from Kumasi on the Antoa Road.
- Tano Kwadwo Shrine at Saaman. Saaman is about 12.6 km north-east of Kumasi, on the former Odumakoma Tempong road that led to northern Ghana.
- Atuo Kosua Shrine at Adwinase. This Shrine House is located off the Ejisu-Onwi road.
- Kentinkrono Shrine at Kentinkrono. This property is at Kentinkrono, about 20.8km on the Kumasi-Ejisu road.
- Tano Odomankoma Shrine at Bogwiase. This Shrine House is located at the foot of the rocky Mampong scarp, about 10 km from Effiduase, in the Sekyere West District.
- Asawase Shrine at Asawase near Ejisu. Also known as Tano Banie Shrine, the Asawase Shrine House is located to the south of Ejisu, about 10 km on the second-class road linking Ejisu and Apromase.
- Asenemaso Shrine at Asenemaso. Asenemaso is located on the Kumasi-Sunyani road, at a distance of about 15 km from Kejetia.
The tenth shrine house is at Patakro near Obuasi. It is known as the Abonsam Shrine, and it is about 3 km eastwards of the Obuasi-Kumasi road.
Opening hours are 9:00am to 4:30pm.
