Lotteries, Luck and Society: A Historical Perspective with Jannie Haek, CEO of the Loterie Nationale Loterij

Lotteries are often seen simply as games of chance, but their history reveals a much deeper connection to human society, culture, and collective life.

In this training, Jannie Haek explores the history, symbolism, and social meaning of lotteries, beginning with the logos of three modern lottery organisations: Loto-Québec, Loterie Romande, and the National Lottery in Belgium.

By looking at the cornucopia symbol found in these logos, the training connects modern lotteries to Lady Fortuna, the goddess associated with luck, chance, fate, fortune, and the uncertainty of life. From there, it traces the role of chance through Greek mythology, ancient democracy, medieval civic life, and the development of the modern lottery.

The training reflects on why lotteries have remained so enduring across time: their connection to hope, broad participation, identity, fun, luck, and solidarity. It also considers the wider role of chance in human life, showing that luck is not only central to lotteries, but also present in nature, science, evolution, and society.

By the end of the training, you will understand lotteries as more than forms of entertainment. You will see them as powerful symbols of collective participation, shared hope, and the responsibility to use good fortune for the benefit of others.