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Taxes are what we pay for civilized society, for…

“Taxes are what we pay for civilized society, for modernity, and for prosperity. The wealthy pay more because they have benefitted more. Taxes, well laid and well spent, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, and promote the general welfare. Taxes protect property and the…” quote by Jill Lepore
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““Taxes are what we pay for civilized society, for modernity, and for prosperity. The wealthy pay more because they have benefitted more. Taxes, well laid and well spent, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, and promote the general welfare. Taxes protect property and the environment; taxes make business possible. Taxes pay for roads and schools and bridges and police and teachers. Taxes pay for doctors and nursing homes and medicine. During an emergency, like an earthquake or a hurricane, taxes pay for rescue workers, shelters, and services. For people whose lives are devastated by other kinds of disaster, like the disaster of poverty, taxes pay, even, for food.””

Jill Lepore

About This Quote

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

Taxes fund civilization, fairness, and disaster relief; they are essential public goods.

In simple terms: Taxes support society and safety.

Key Takeaway

Support equitable taxation.

Themes

taxation public good equity

Mood

analytical concerned

Type

policy educational

When to use this quote

  • government budgeting
  • social services
  • environmental protection

Key Concepts

economics public policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to ensure fair tax use?
  • What reforms improve transparency?
A Different Perspective

Tax misuse can erode trust.

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