A lottery is a salutary instrument and a tax... laid on…
“A lottery is a salutary instrument and a tax... laid on the willing only, that is to say, on those who can risk the price of a ticket without sensible injury, for the possibility of a higher prize.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The lottery is justified as a voluntary tax on those who can afford the risk, offering a chance at greater reward without harming the participants.
In simple terms: Voluntary risk for potential gain.
Key Takeaway
Lottery as a consensual, low‑impact tax.
Themes
risk
voluntarism
economics
fairness
incentives
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
maxim
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- fundraising events
- state lotteries
- charitable raffles
- gamified fundraising
- policy debates
Key Concepts
taxation
probability
social contract
Practical Applications
- designing equitable lottery systems
- educating public on risk
Questions to Reflect On
- Does voluntary risk justify taxation?
- How does the lottery affect social equity?