Why are Stock Options Legal?

[Goalpost]

I own stocks, but don't own options. Statistically, 61 percent of Americans own stocks, and 23 percent own options.

I invested in 401k(mutual funds) and that was enough to retire with after 35 years. Option trading wasn't needed outside of that.. Nor was trading stocks for that matter. Just long term holding where you contribute an amount each paycheck.