Skip to content

Ability Quote by John Quincy Adams

“So far as the object of taxation is to raise a revenue for discharging the debts and defraying the expenses of the community, its operation should be adapted as much as possible to suit the burden with equal hand upon all in proportion with their ability of bearing it without oppression.” quote by John Quincy Adams
Download Open image
“So far as the object of taxation is to raise a revenue for discharging the debts and defraying the expenses of the community, its operation should be adapted as much as possible to suit the burden with equal hand upon all in proportion with their ability of bearing it without oppression.”

John Quincy Adams

About This Quote

Source Speech: Congressional Address, 1825

Taxation should be fair, matching each person's ability to pay without causing hardship.

In simple terms: Tax should match ability to pay.

Key Takeaway

Design taxes to be equitable.

Themes

fairness taxation social equity

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

policy historical

When to use this quote

  • budget planning
  • policy drafting
  • tax reform discussions
  • public budgeting

Key Concepts

progressive taxation public finance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance revenue needs with fairness?
  • What safeguards prevent oppressive taxation?
A Different Perspective

Implementation can be politically contentious and complex.

2.4 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by John Quincy Adams

Explore all 186 John Quincy Adams quotes

More Ability quotes

Browse all 9,990 Ability quotes