Such taxes [upon the necessaries of life], when they have grown up to a certain height, are a curse equal to the barrenness of the earth and the inclemency of the heavens; and yet it is in the richest and most industrious countries that they have been most generally imposed. No other countries could support so great a disorder.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- High taxes on necessities hurt the most, even in rich countries.
- In plain terms
- Taxes on basic goods are a curse.
- What can you take from it?
- Avoid taxing basic necessities heavily.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Where should taxes fall instead?
- Can you fund state needs without it?
Another view
Governments often need revenue from broad sources.
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