Should the rich pay more taxes?
Most of the time when I read about the rich paying more taxes, the argument runs along the lines of tax burdens (ie, the rich can afford it, etc). They also talk about social justice, which I don't really dig as an argument.
Only rarely, and in a not fully developed form, in my opinion, is what I consider to be a potentially more compelling argument, should it pan out: The rich derive greater benefit, on the whole, from common property and services.
Business, for instance relies on the interstate transportation system. Public education creates a cadre of at least competent people that the rich employ in various capacities to make more money. In essence, publicly supported infrastructure, in a variety of forms, is a common good that the rich may derive greater utility from, individually, than the middle class and poor.
For the purposes of this discussion I would include corporations in this construct.
Note that I am not necessarily suggesting we increase taxes (although I think it's a good idea), I am merely making a tentative argument for progressive taxation.
What say you?
Has anybody done any studies estimating the relative benefit to the rich from common property and services? Do they benefit - in a proportional sense - more heavily than the middle class or poor? (ie, they can trace a greater percentage of their wealth/income to public goods/services than the middle class/poor?)
punish those who move the economy and create jobs? great idea...
............................................Flat Tax
Yes, remove all incentive to work hard, create wealth, and grow. That'll do it!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Merryprankster
The flat tax has an inherent appeal, but it wouldn't be fair if ....
Oh boy, when somebody starts throwing the word "fair" around you'd best hold on to your wallet, 'cause they're comin' for ya!
:rolleyes:
create your own measure, create your own reality
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Merryprankster
If the rich derive a benefit that is LESS than their current tax contribution, then it would be FAIR to reduce their taxes. But if they derive a benefit that is GREATER than their current tax contribution, then it would be FAIR to raise their taxes.
Gee, I wonder what conclusion vote-hungry lawmakers of a certain political stripe would come to?:rolleyes: