Chinese auctionChinese auction is a type of the all-pay auction, where the probability of winning depends on the relative size of a participant's bid.[1] The choice of the winner is done by a lottery, whereby the bidders compete for a higher chance of winning.[1] It is also known as penny raffle, chance auction and tricky tray.[2][3] EtymologyThe origin of the name is unknown[1] but is thought to originated from the 19th Century when the term "Chinese" came to be used to mean cheap and described the inexpensive cost of the raffle and prizes.[2][4] There is no connection to Chinese culture.[2] SignificanceChinese auctions are usually conducted during charity events for fundraising.[5] Political elections and patent races can be modeled as Chinese auctions, in which the chance of winning is seen as proportional to the amount spent.[6] ControversySome sources consider the term "chinese auction" as derogatory.[2][7] References
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