Flat Tax

Paper Summary:

This paper provides an overview of the issue of progressive taxes, cites related scholarly literature, and draws on some of the proposals advanced by think tanks. It looks at how those on each side tout the economic costs and benefits of their position and back them up with broader philosophical arguments. The paper also examines how proponents of progressive taxes argue that they are fair because the wealthy inordinately benefit from the structures that promote their wealth.

Outline:
Introduction
History of Taxes in America
Where we're Headed
Pro-Progressive Tax Theory
Less Progressivity, Flat Tax
Public Opinion
Conclusions

From the Paper:

"During the early years of the U.S. government, revenue was generated primarily through fees and taxes on certain transactions. The crisis of the Civil War spurred Congress to pass a 3% income tax in 1862 as an emergency measure to assist in dealing with the national crisis (Tax Foundation, n.d.). The initial income tax was progressive, as the 3% rate was applicable to all income above $600. An inheritance tax (sometimes referred to as a death tax by advocates) was also established. In order to enforce the newly required taxing measures, the government created what is now known as the Internal Revenue Service. They were given general oversight to develop policies and procedures that would assist in the collection of taxes and fees."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Cnn/opinion Research Corporation Poll. (2007). Would you favor or oppose making those tax cuts permanent?".
• Gallup Poll. (2005). "Which do you think is the worst tax, that is, the least fair: federal income tax, federal Social Security tax, state income tax, state sales tax, or local property tax?".
• Harris Interactive Poll. (2005). Do you favor tax simplification?
• Lackoff, G., & Budner, B. (2007). Progressive Taxation: Some Hidden Truths. Rockridge Institute.
• N, N. (2006). Meritocracy and its discontents. Economist, 381, 23-24.

More papers on Flat Tax:

• Essay # 70921 : "The Flat Tax Revolution"
• Persuasive Essay # 142583 : "The Inherent Fairness of the Flat Tax System"
• Term Paper # 149246 : "Flat Tax on Income"
• Argumentative Essay # 68075 : "Flat Tax System"

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