Poverty and Lotteries Essay Example
Poverty and Lotteries Essay Example

Poverty and Lotteries Essay Example

Available Only on StudyHippo
Topics:
  • Pages: 2 (389 words)
  • Published: September 1, 2016
  • Type: Article
View Entire Sample
Text preview

In her essay, Gloria Jimenez discusses the utilization of lotteries for manipulation purposes and examines possible resolutions to these concerns. The initial paragraph effectively introduces the thesis of the essay, emphasizing its influence on both society and government.

According to the text, thirty-nine states and Washington, D.C operate lotteries and it is unlikely that these states will ever stop participating in the lottery business (1). The author's purpose is further explained in the following sentences, stating that the states should not encourage people to gamble (5). Both society and government have control over individuals; however, they tend to lead us astray instead of guiding us in a safe and proper manner. To illustrate this point, the author uses the example of looking after one's own interests, as demonstrated in the second paragraph with the phrase "Play today. Cash Tomorrow." (8).

"text-align: justify">
The society and government discourage people from resisting the temptation of lotteries, trapping them in an illusionary "Jackpot". The author also highlights that many states use slogans to encourage continuous lottery participation. However, the author does not solely present a biased view of lotteries. She clarifies that state-run lotteries appear to be favored due to their contribution towards education and other essential services. Additionally, if this funding source were to disappear, the states would have to resort to imposing taxes or finding alternative revenue streams. Furthermore, lotteries also generate employment opportunities (26).

The author of this essay addresses the problem of the society and government that leads to negative effects. While reading the essay, I felt a strong emotional response. The author concludes by offering several ideas and solutions to overcome th

View entire sample
Join StudyHippo to see entire essay

issue. The author hopes that some politicians will prioritize the common good and vote accordingly.

As a reader of this persuasive essay, I am compelled to reconsider the often unnoticed dual nature of lotteries. While it is true that some of the funds generated go towards education and provide assistance to certain individuals, it is evident that significant help for them remains distant. Moreover, lotteries perpetuate the divide between the rich and poor by suggesting that "poor people do not know how to manage their money, and so we ought to remove temptation from their eyes" (80). It is plausible to assume that lotteries create greater wealth disparities, favoring the fortunate few while resulting in despair for the majority.

Get an explanation on any task
Get unstuck with the help of our AI assistant in seconds
New