The lottery is the biggest form of gambling in America. Almost everyone plays at least once in their lifetime, and states advertise it as a great way to raise revenue. But how much does that revenue really do for a state, and is it worth the cost of people losing money?

I’ve talked to many lottery players, people who have been playing for years, spending $50, $100 a week. What’s striking is that they all know the odds are terrible, but still keep buying tickets. They tell me they feel like it’s their civic duty to do something for the community, or that it’s a “reward” for all the hard work they put in every day. They don’t realize that what they’re doing is irrational, and they’re being duped.

Lotteries were common in colonial America and played a major role in financing private and public projects, including roads, canals, and churches. They also financed the construction of colleges, universities, and military fortifications. But the disproportionate share of the player base that comes from lower-income and less educated populations suggests that, for these people, the lottery is not just a waste of money; it’s a form of economic discrimination.

To improve your chances of winning, choose numbers that aren’t close together and avoid number combinations that have sentimental meaning, such as birthdays. Buying more tickets can also increase your odds. If you do win, think about whether to take a lump sum or annuity payout. A lump sum allows you to invest your winnings in assets with higher returns, while an annuity lets you spread out the payments over a longer period of time.