Because taxpaying is seen as an emblem of civic worthiness, denying the poor the status of taxpayers has the effect of denying their political standing. Classing a large percentage of the populace as a kind of second-class citizenry is genuinely toxic for democratic norms.

Vanessa Williamson
About This Quote

The idea that not paying taxes is a sign of bad character has become so widespread that many people now view it as non-negotiable. But the truth is, not paying taxes is also the result of bad government. Although it’s true that people who are poor or don’t have jobs are more likely to have less money to pay in taxes, they are still paying sales taxes, property taxes, and other fees. Those who don’t pay federal income tax aren’t necessarily non-taxpayers. They may be unemployed or too poor for the IRS to be collecting from them.

Source: Read My Lips: Why Americans Are Proud To Pay Taxes

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