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Full Idea
For the maintenance of public force and the expenses of administration, a common contribution is indispensable. It must be equally apportioned among all citizens according to their abilities.
Gist of Idea
Everyone must contribute to the state's power and administration, in just proportion
Source
Mirabeau and committee (Declaration of the Rights of Man [1789], 13)
Book Ref
'Les Philosophes', ed/tr. Torrey,Norman L. [Perigee 1980], p.286
A Reaction
Presumably this enshrines graduated income tax, an eighteenth century invention. Could you contribute just by your labour, or by fighting for the army? Those may be greater contributions than mere money.
| 19855 | The purpose of society is to protect the rights of liberty, property, security and resistance [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19856 | The law expresses the general will, and all citizens can participate [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19857 | All citizens are eligible for roles in the state, purely on the basis of merit [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19858 | No one should be molested for their opinions, if they do not disturb the established order [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19859 | Free speech is very precious, and everyone may speak and write freely (but take responsibility for it) [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19860 | Everyone must contribute to the state's power and administration, in just proportion [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19861 | There is only a constitution if rights are assured, and separation of powers defined [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19862 | Property is a sacred right, breached only when essential, and with fair compensation [Mirabeau/committee] |