The lottery is a game that allows people to fantasize about winning fortunes for just a few bucks. It taps into our inherent desire to win the big jackpot, and it gives us an excuse to betray the commandment to not covet (Exodus 20:17). But the odds of winning are infinitesimal, and most lottery players know this. So why do they play?
The answer is marketing. Lottery advertising features images of previous winners enjoying their newfound wealth, and it emphasizes that a winning ticket is easy to purchase. It’s also broadcast on television, radio and billboards, and people talk about it at work and school. As the jackpot grows, more people buy tickets. And, as more zeros are added to the prize amount, the message is repeated: “You could be next.”
While casting lots for decisions and determining fates by chance has a long history in human culture (including several instances in the Bible), using the lottery for material gain has only recently become popular. Historically, lotteries have been used to raise money for a variety of public purposes, from town fortifications to helping the poor.
Although some of the proceeds are paid out as prizes, a significant portion is kept by lottery administrators for administrative expenses and other costs, including advertising. This means that the games can be regressive, especially for those with low incomes, who are often the most frequent lottery players. In addition, research suggests that lotteries may contribute to gambling addiction.
