In the first example, is the reason you prefer the dice roll because you enjoy the thrill of the uncertainty? If so, even though you end up poorer by taking the dice trade(s) vs. no trade, you've experienced the thrill of the trade(s). And if that thrill is at least as valuable as the pennies you are poorer, then there is no irrationality. Have I missed something?
In the first example, is the reason you prefer the dice roll because you enjoy the thrill of the uncertainty? If so, even though you end up poorer by taking the dice trade(s) vs. no trade, you've experienced the thrill of the trade(s). And if that thrill is at least as valuable as the pennies you are poorer, then there is no irrationality. Have I missed something?