Winona State University psychology professor John Johanson, who has studied decision-making processes in lottery situations, said big jackpots can draw unlikely gamblers looking for a chance at a win — or just something to talk about at the water cooler.

“I think the reason people buy them in the first place is because it gives them license to dream about what might be,” Johanson said.

Johanson said the incentive to buy is linked to the affordability of a $1 ticket.

“The cost is next to nothing,” he said. “To some extent, they’re buying entertainment.”