<< And yes the rich do deserve to pay a higher percentage, this is a capitaliztic society, and as such if you are able to take advantage of being allowed to operate in this great capitalistic society, you should have to give something back in some way. That's also why donations are tax deductable, you're being rewarded for being generous. And if you think people can evade taxes now, the rich have the resources to easily evade a flat sales tax. in other words, pull your head outta your ass people. >>
That really doesn't make sense. Look, I agree with you that a flat tax wouldn't work - and I don't think Russia's economy is much to model on *chuckle* - but rich people DO give something back to society. It's called paying for the pool guy, getting the golf leaf put on their car, hiring 50 people at the plant, flying first class, etc. Their money gets spent to help society.
The rich, morally speaking, should not have to pay a higher percentage because it is unfair. If you're lazy and you make $30k/year and I'm not and I make $500k/year in some ways I should pay the same taxes exactly! That is ultimately and purely fair. We each pay $5k/year. Making it a bit less fair we each pay same percentage so you pay 20% and I pay 20%. Less fair even still is I pay a higher percentage. Now I'm REALLY getting reamed hard for my efforts and successes. Am I still better off than you? Yes, and that is why rich people strive.
I appreciate the taxes they pay and I'm above the average income as well so I pay more than the average joe after everything is taken into account. Although it's unfair it has to stay this way otherwise the poor now would be broke.