Archives for April 17, 2010

In honor of tax day, the Tea Party folks held various events to express their concern about taxes and to push for greater fiscal conservatism. Interestingly, the Tea Party seems to have had results already: federal taxes decreased by $173 billion in 2009 and the average tax refund is supposed to be 10% higher than last year.

Of course, it might be wondered why the Tea Party folks are so angry, given that taxes for those making under $250,000 have been reduced. After all, most people make less than $250,000 so most of use are enjoying lower taxes already. Because of this, it might be suspected that the Tea Party is a tempest about nothing, perhaps whipped up by pundits and a misconception of reality. Or perhaps the Tea Party folks are being manipulated by others, such as corporations.

However, even if taxes for most people are lower there could well be grounds for protesting against taxes. Lower taxes might still to be too high and hence worthy of protest. Also, there are legitimate concerns about how tax dollars are being spent (or wasted, depending on how you see it). In fact, it seems quite reasonable to demand that needless waste be eliminate. Where it becomes more controversial is when considering what spending should be cut and what should be left intact. These matters are clearly the subject for legitimate political debate. Unfortunately, these matters are often approached with hyperbole, willful ignorance, and outright deception. This creates serious problems in having a meaningful, rational discussion of the issues.

I am for paying less taxes. In general, I think I can spend my money more wisely than politicians. Also, there is the selfishness factor-I would rather have more of my income to spend on my needs and my wants.

That said, I do recognize the importance and necessity of both taxes and having a centralized system. After all, without a source of funding and a system to handle large scale projects we could not have things like national defense, effective law enforcement, large scale infrastructure, and all the things that make civilization and civil living possible.

The challenge is to find just the right amount to tax people so that the essential aspects of civilization can be maintained without robbing the citizens.

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• Poll: Most Tea Party Supporters Say Their Taxes Fair (cbsnews.com)
• Misinformed on Taxes (outsidethebeltway.com)