I would put it down to psychology.\n\nPeople who feel they are well-off feel no need to participate in the lottery programs. While those who feel they are less than well off think "Why not bet a buck or two on the chance to make a few million?". \n\nIt would seem to make sense to me.\n\naddition: Yes Matt - agreed. I just didn't state it as eloquently. Feeling 'no need to participate' is as you say related to education, and those well off tend to have a better education.
How come it seems like Lottery winners are always the ones that buy tickets in low income areas.?