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When the toll upon carriages of luxury, upon coaches…

“When the toll upon carriages of luxury, upon coaches, post-chaises, etc. is made somewhat higher in proportion to their weight, than upon carriages of necessary use, such as carts, wagons, etc. the indolence and vanity of the rich is made to contribute in a very easy manner to the relief of the…” quote by Adam Smith
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“When the toll upon carriages of luxury, upon coaches, post-chaises, etc. is made somewhat higher in proportion to their weight, than upon carriages of necessary use, such as carts, wagons, etc. the indolence and vanity of the rich is made to contribute in a very easy manner to the relief of the poor, by rendering cheaper the transportation of heavy goods to all the different parts of the country.”

Adam Smith

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Higher taxes on luxury transport make the wealthy indirectly fund aid for the poor by lowering costs for essential goods transport.

In simple terms: Taxing luxury transport helps the poor.

Key Takeaway

Use progressive taxes to aid the needy.

Themes

economics taxation social justice

Mood

analytical critical

Type

economic policy

When to use this quote

  • government budgeting
  • public policy
  • social welfare programs

Key Concepts

progressive taxation wealth redistribution public finance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can tax policy balance fairness and efficiency?
  • What alternatives exist to fund public goods?
A Different Perspective

Tax may burden the wealthy and reduce economic activity.

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