A lottery is a scheme for allocating prizes by chance. In order to qualify as a lottery there are certain criteria that must be met:
A lottery has the effect of encouraging participation by people who would not otherwise do so on the grounds that they have an equal chance of winning a prize. It may also have the effect of increasing total spending by participants, and it is often a means of raising funds for particular purposes.
Some governments outlaw lotteries, while others endorse them and organize state or national lotteries, or both. These lotteries typically offer a large number of small prizes rather than few big ones. The costs of organizing and promoting the lottery must be deducted from the pool of money available for prizes. A percentage of the remaining pool is normally set aside as revenues and profits for the organizer or sponsor.
Approximately 186,000 retailers sell lottery tickets in the United States. The majority of these are convenience stores, but many other outlets include gas stations, drugstores, service organizations (e.g., fraternal clubs and churches), grocery stores, restaurants and bars, and bowling alleys. Some retailers are also able to sell tickets on the Internet.
Most state and local lotteries advertise that they are a “good” form of gambling because they raise funds for the state. However, the percentage of overall state revenue that is generated by lotteries is relatively low. It is also difficult for lotteries to make a compelling case that playing the lottery is a good civic duty, particularly when the average ticket cost is so high.