A lottery is a game in which a prize, usually money, is awarded for a random drawing of tickets. The casting of lots for a wide variety of purposes, from deciding fates to the distribution of property, has a long history (including several instances in the Bible). In modern times, lotteries are often held by public organizations to raise funds and distribute prizes. The first known public lotteries to award cash prizes were held in the Low Countries in the 15th century for such things as town repairs and helping the poor.

Although some people play for the mere entertainment value, most do so because they expect to gain a significant monetary return on their investment. In these cases, the expected utility of a monetary win is higher than the disutility of losing. The monetary value of winning may also be outweighed by the non-monetary benefits, such as the prestige and status a jackpot winner can enjoy.

While state governments establish and manage lotteries, few if any have a coherent gambling policy. Instead, policy decisions are made piecemeal and incrementally. As a result, lottery officials often inherit policies that they can do little about, and they are constantly under pressure to maximize profits.

In addition, the nature of the gambling industry is such that it tends to attract certain types of people. For example, men and young people play more than women or the elderly. Furthermore, income differences are evident, with people from middle-income neighborhoods playing more than those from lower-income areas.