Reviewed by Dale Shelabarger
Lottery Corruption, U.S.A
by Harold Rosen
AuthorHouse
November 2020, Paperback, 204 pages, ISBN-13: 978-1665506649
The game of chance has fascinated humanity for centuries, creating a compelling narrative of luck, fate, and fortune. And none is more intriguing than the lottery, a complex web of hope, desire, and sometimes, controversy. Harold Rosen’s “The Lottery and Corruption in the U.S.” delves into this intricate labyrinth, shedding light on the darker corners of the lottery industry in the U.S.
Rosen’s book, spanning an impressive 189 pages, is a tour de force. It’s a revealing exploration of the lottery’s role in American society and the controversies it has sparked over the years. What sets this book apart is not just Rosen’s comprehensive research, but his unique perspective. He doesn’t just present the facts; he also poses challenging questions, encouraging readers to question their assumptions about the lottery.
The author takes readers on an engaging journey through the history of the lottery in the U.S. From the initial lottery boom in the 18th century to the modern-day multi-state lottery games, Rosen’s account is as entertaining as it is enlightening. He masterfully weaves historical facts with fascinating anecdotes, creating a narrative that is as captivating as it is informative.
What makes Lottery Corruption in the U.S.A truly compelling, however, is Rosen’s scrutiny of the alleged corruption in the lottery industry. He examines a number of high-profile cases, offering a detailed analysis of the evidence and judicial proceedings. His accounts are both thorough and balanced, and he never shies away from highlighting the ambiguities and complexities of these cases.
As for the veracity of the book’s claims, Rosen’s meticulous research and extensive referencing make it clear that his accounts are firmly grounded in fact. He draws on a range of primary and secondary sources, from court records and newspaper articles to academic studies, providing a solid evidential basis for his arguments.
However, while Rosen’s factual accounts are commendable, his book shines brightest when he ventures into the realm of analysis. His insights into the cultural, social, and economic implications of the lottery are both thought-provoking and insightful. He analyses how the lottery, often seen as a harmless game of chance, can have far-reaching impacts on society, from perpetuating income inequality to fostering problem gambling.
Rosen also critically examines the role of the state in the lottery industry. He questions the ethics of state-run lotteries, arguing that they often prey on the most vulnerable members of society. It’s a perspective that is rarely explored in mainstream discussions about the lottery, making it a valuable contribution to the debate.
Lottery Corruption, U.S.A is not just a history of the lottery; it’s a critique, a reflection, and a call to action. It’s a book that challenges readers to look beyond the glitz and glamour of the lottery and consider its broader social implications. It’s a book that doesn’t just inform, but also provokes and inspires.
That said, the book’s extensive scope may be overwhelming for some readers. The sheer volume of information, combined with Rosen’s intricate narrative style, can make the book challenging to navigate. A more streamlined approach, focusing on a few key themes, might have made the book more accessible to a wider audience.
Despite this, Lottery Corruption, U.S.A is a commendable effort by Harold Rosen. It’s a book that illuminates the shadowy corners of the lottery industry and invites readers to question their assumptions. It’s a book that is as revealing as it is fascinating, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of gaming, society, and corruption.