The Inequality of Fair Play: Lottery Gambling and Social Stratification in Germany

On the basis of a telephone survey conducted on a random sample of the German residential population, we examine the distribution effects state lotteries have on Germanys social structure. Lotteries are highly taxed economic transactions, whose proceeds make up a considerable share of public fiscal revenues. Our analysis shows that lotteries are a form of regressive taxation. Using key demographic indicators, such as age, citizenship, and levels of income and education, we demonstrate the effects of fiscal redistribution.