This quote suggests that there is no such thing as a perfectly fair lottery, or more broadly, a perfectly fair chance. Essentially, it implies that in any game of chance, there are always factors that can skew the odds, making it less than perfectly fair. This could be due to the inherent structure of the game, external influences, or even the involvement of human elements such as biases or manipulation.

In a literal sense, a lottery involves drawing lots where each participant has an equal chance of winning. However, Smith argues that this is never truly the case. There may be factors that subtly influence the outcome, such as the physical characteristics of the lots drawn, the method of drawing, or even the person doing the drawing.

Applying this to a broader context, the quote could be seen as a commentary on life and society. It suggests that in any situation where we think we are dealing with pure chance or a level playing field, there are often hidden factors at play. This could be seen in various aspects of life, such as social status, education, or opportunities, where certain individuals or groups may have an advantage or disadvantage due to circumstances beyond their control.

In terms of personal development, this quote might imply the importance of recognizing and understanding these hidden influences in our lives. Rather than simply accepting our circumstances as the result of ‘chance’, we should strive to identify these factors and work to mitigate their impact. This could involve seeking out opportunities to learn and grow, developing resilience in the face of adversity, or advocating for fairness and equality in society.

Overall, the quote serves as a reminder to question the fairness of the ‘lotteries’ we encounter in life and to continually strive for a more equitable world.