In "Lotteries Cheat, Corrupt The People" George F. Will of the Washington Post, argues that American lotteries have done nothing but cause a series of national problems. Will compares playing the lottery to a game of "jai alai," stating that it's a "game for the entertainment of gamblers and the benefit of, among others, the state treasury." .
Although Will's opinion has some footing, millions of people would disagree with him. It's proven than lotteries provide much more than personal enjoyment; states which participate in them see take in millions of additional dollars every year. This money can be used to create new and assist existing programs. .
The majority of gamblers do not gamble for the money; they do it for the thrill and the adrenaline rush of believing that they may, somehow, win a boat-load of cash. To some people, it is a stress reliever; to others it is a fun activity to do in their spare time. For example, when an adult scratches away at the selected spots on their ticket with their lucky penny they are finding pleasure in its activity. Some individuals, majority being elders, are incapable of participating in physical sports. Physical sports bring competition, thrill, and exhilaration to those who play them. When an individual is unable to participate they commonly lose the feelings that come along with the activities. Lotteries have the ability to reestablish these feelings of excitement and enjoyment for those who are incapable of finding their enjoyment elsewhere. In addition to providing enjoyment, lotteries strengthen hope for hopeless individuals as well. .
Hope is the number one driving force that keeps people going in this world. Individuals get out of bed every morning because they have motivation. Motivation can stem from many things. Those who find little motivation in everyday activity may resort to lotteries for this hope and inspiration.
