It is a self-imposed addictive tax millions contribute to which funds an entitlement or welfare benefit for one individual only. It is a contradiction for voters to be opposed to the welfare state, yet to go out and buy lottery tickets the proceeds from which ultimately accrue to and enrich only one individual.
The difference is that welfare benefits others in a forced taking of your wealth.
The lottery may enrich one individual but for $2, that individual could be yourself.