Description Quote by James Madison
“The apportionment of taxes on the various descriptions of property is an act which seems to require the most exact impartiality; yet there is, perhaps, no legislative act in which greater opportunity and temptation are given to a predominant party to trample on the rules of justice. Every shilling which they overburden the inferior number is a shilling saved to their own pockets.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Correspondence on Tax Policy, 1798
Tax laws often appear neutral but can be exploited by dominant groups, shifting burdens onto the less powerful.
In simple terms: Taxes can be unfairly used by the powerful to enrich themselves.
Advocate for equitable tax structures.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public policy
- budget planning
- legal reform
- civil advocacy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms can prevent tax exploitation?
- How does power affect tax fairness?
Political realities may limit ideal reforms.