Sanford School of Public Policy
Duke University

Publications [#266553] of Philip J. Cook

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Journal Articles

1. Clotfelter, CT; Cook, PJ. "On the Economics of State Lotteries." Journal of Economic Perspectives 4.4 (Fall, 1990): 105-119. (Reprinted (in shorter version) in The Conference Board Economic Times 2(4), April 1991. Reprinted (in revised version) in Samuel H. Baker and Catherine s. Elliott, eds. Readings in Public Finance 2nd ed., Cincinnati: South-Western College Publishers, 1997, 457-472) [Gateway.cgi], [doi]
   (last updated on 2024/04/25)

   Abstract:
   This article examines several aspects of the economics of state lotteries, focusing primarily on the demand for lottery products. We begin by giving a descriptive overview. The succeeding sections examine the motivations for playing lottery games and evidence on the determinants of lottery demand. The final section considers the welfare economics of the apparent objective of lotteries—to maximize profits for the state.