Burden Quote by David Cay Johnston
“I dislike paying taxes as much as anyone, but yes, taxes are the price of civilization. There is no America without taxes. The question isn't, "Do we want to have taxes?" The question is, "How heavy is the burden, and who bears that burden"?”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Tax Policy Discussion, 2022
Taxes are essential for society’s functioning; the debate should focus on fairness and distribution rather than existence.
In simple terms: Taxes fund civilization; fairness matters.
Key Takeaway
Consider tax equity and burden sharing.
Themes
taxation
civilization
fairness
public policy
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
policy
economic
When to use this quote
- budget planning
- public services
- wealth redistribution
- civic engagement
Key Concepts
economics
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- Who bears the tax burden most?
- How can tax systems be made fairer?
A Different Perspective
High taxes can stifle economic growth if not balanced.
![“Look at what I am proposing, and we [wih Bernie Sanders] have a vigorous agreement here. We both want to reign in the excesses of Wall Street. I also want to reign in the excesses of Johnson Controls that we bailed out when they were an autoparts company, and we saved the auto industry, and now…” quote by Hillary Clinton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ea8/hillary-clinton-51_agreement_look-at-what-i-am-proposing-and-we-wih-b_49820.jpg)
