Advice Quote by Dave Barry
“Every year I write a tax advice column and I used to always make fun of that. One year, one of my favorite IRS commissioners, I think his name was Roscoe somebody, wrote that one of the most often-asked questions by taxpayers was, "How can I contribute more?" Well, I tell ya, ol' Roscoe's really been doing situps under parked cars again. I've heard a lot of people ask a lot of questions about taxes, but I never heard anybody say, "How can I, the ordinary person, send more money for no reason?"”
About This Quote
Source Column: Tax Advice, Dave Barry, 1998
People rarely ask to give money without benefit; the request is unusual.
In simple terms: Most don’t want to give extra money.
Key Takeaway
Question motives behind charitable giving.
Themes
taxes
charity
motivation
Mood
humorous
inquisitive
Type
satirical
reflective
When to use this quote
- nonprofit fundraising
- tax planning
- public policy
Key Concepts
Behavioral economics
social norms
Questions to Reflect On
- Why would someone want to contribute more?
- What incentives would encourage giving?
A Different Perspective
Tax incentives can change behavior.
