Playing devil's advocate for a moment:

I think it's reasonable to buy lottery tickets if you think of them as a form of entertainment rather than as a source of revenue. Buying them gives you a feeling of suspense, some fun imagining what you'd do if you win, and the excitement of waiting for the numbers to read. After all, people pay money to see movies or watch games, in order to experience the safe thrill of suspense and excitement.

Marion