[105217] in Cypherpunks
How to solve the tax problem w/o anarchy or force
daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (Jim Choate)
Sun Nov 8 19:56:07 1998
From: Jim Choate <ravage@einstein.ssz.com>
To: cypherpunks@einstein.ssz.com (Cypherpunks Distributed Remailer)
Date: Sun, 8 Nov 1998 18:40:36 -0600 (CST)
Reply-To: Jim Choate <ravage@einstein.ssz.com>
Let's assume a society (such as ours) which consists of two sets of
citizens. Those who see social relevance in taxation and those who feel it
is an imposition. Historicaly this problem has seemed intractable. The
reason being that most societies have been so tied to the concept of
complete participation from all citizenry that violence is needed for
enforcement. How the relevant regulations or the exact nature of those
regulations requiring such use of force is immaterial.
There is a workable alternative. That alternative is to seperate civic and
social duties according to tax participation.
Those who pay taxes derive full benefit from their citizenship. Those who
don't receive a bill for any they use.
Don't want to pay city taxes? Then expect a higher utility rate, increased
trash removal costs, specific hourly charges for any usage of city services
such as ambulances, fire, police, etc. Loose your option to vote in the
local elections.
At the state level similar issues (for states w/ state taxes, Texas doesn't
so I really don't know what that's like) would be enforced.
At the federal level it would consist of almost total shutout of government
services. In case of war such individuals would be considered volunteers and
would be called first. After all they should want to fight for their right
not to pay taxes. It's probable the guy who's shooting at you won't look as
kindly on your views. You would loose your right to vote.
You would be prohibited from working for a government agency or a civilian
contractor thereof. Government supported schools would be closed to you and
your family. In the case of emergeny relief you would be ineligible. etc.
Government at the appropriate level would in short charge premium service
charges for non-participants. It could mean higher automobile registration
costs. Prohibition from owning businesses, especialy since businesses exist
within a legal context (implying the tax authority), because of the
potential to derive benefits via the company. Business always pays taxes,
businesses don't have civil liberties.
This looks to be a very lucrative mechanism to pursuade exceptional
compliance...
And just think, you wouldn't ever have to take a persons property or kick a
door in ever again.
Nah, where's the fun in that!
____________________________________________________________________
To know what is right and not to do it is the worst cowardice.
Confucius
The Armadillo Group ,::////;::-. James Choate
Austin, Tx /:'///// ``::>/|/ ravage@ssz.com
www.ssz.com .', |||| `/( e\ 512-451-7087
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