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Single Idea 19860

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / E. Policies / 4. Taxation]

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)

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.

Book Reference

'Les Philosophes', ed/tr. Torrey,Norman L. [Perigee 1980], p.286