Made Quote by Jean-Baptiste Say
“A tax can never be favorable to the public welfare, except by the good use that is made of its proceeds.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Economic Treatises, 1803
Taxes are neutral unless their revenue is used for public good; otherwise they harm welfare.
In simple terms: Taxes only help if spent wisely.
Key Takeaway
Ensure tax revenue funds beneficial services.
Themes
public finance
tax policy
welfare economics
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
policy
economic
When to use this quote
- budget planning
- social programs
- infrastructure funding
Key Concepts
externalities
public good
resource allocation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we guarantee tax revenues are used for public benefit?
- What mechanisms ensure accountability?
A Different Perspective
If funds are mismanaged, taxes can still be detrimental.
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