|
What??
It is patronizing in the extreme when you insinuate my opinions stem from some form of fairy tale world. You might not agree with them, but I have arrived at them through my life experiences and I am a very grounded individual. I am not wide-read enough apparently because I don't believe I have read any of the stories you are referencing.
And yes, there is a 'pseudo-ethical' argument against a progressive income tax. To tell someone who is laboring more efficiently or working double shifts that he should pay more than those who choose not to is unethical. It penalizes hard work and the entrepreneurial spirit.
I have met with limited success so far in my career. I have passed many of my peers while some have surpassed my station in life. However, I have acquired my humble belongings, wealth, and position in life quite literally through my own blood, sweat and tears. I have worked harder, taken more risks, pushed through pain and left others behind me who simply lacked the willpower to carry on. To then suggest that due to my sacrifice and dedication I have earned the privilege of paying not only more money in taxes, but a higher percentage of my income is frustrating at the least. If you would like me to explain myself better I will be happy to discuss it with you over PM.
I don't personally believe in progressive taxation, nor do I believe in sin-taxes, etc. because I feel they are usually the result of the majority ganging up on a smaller group. That, or the tax is an attempt to generate more revenue in a way that won't be visible to most people. I feel everybody should contribute a certain percentage of their income/spending/etc. There are dozens of ways to do it, but at heart I want to get rid of sliding scales, exceptions, loopholes, and targeted taxes. If you really believe our current system allows the rich to pay less in taxes than the middle class then you should support a flat tax or something similar as a better alternative, even if it is not the progressive ideal you would prefer.
__________________
"Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery." - Winston Churchill
"All men dream: but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act out their dream with open eyes, to make it possible." Seven Pillars of Wisdom, T.E. Lawrence
|