Lottery
A competition based on chance in which numbered tickets are sold and prizes awarded to the holders of numbers selected at random; usually sponsored by a state or organization as a way of raising money. Also used figuratively to refer to any undertaking that relies on chance selections (for example, combat duty).
The casting of lots for decision-making and (in early use) divination has a long history, but lotteries that award material prizes for random selections are relatively recent. Lottery games have become popular in many countries.
Although lottery games may provide some people with large financial gains, they are not appropriate for everyone. Unless you are a high-stakes gambler, the odds of winning are extremely low. And even if you win, it is important to view the prize as payment for entertainment rather than as a financial bet.
Originally, state governments operated the lottery to raise funds for town improvements, such as roads and buildings. They also allowed private organizations to hold drawing sessions to raise money for a variety of causes, including the poor. Benjamin Franklin sponsored a lottery to purchase cannons to defend Philadelphia against the British during the American Revolution, and Thomas Jefferson held one to help pay his mounting debts.
Since New Hampshire established the modern era of state lotteries in 1964, other states have adopted the concept, and the industry has evolved to encompass a wide range of different types of games. However, a number of critical issues arise from the way in which state lotteries operate. Since the games are designed to maximize revenues, advertising necessarily focuses on persuading target groups to spend their money on a lottery ticket. But this approach runs at cross-purposes with the public interest, especially if it involves encouraging problem gambling.