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Single Idea 19836

[from 'The Social Contract (tr Cress)' by Jean-Jacques Rousseau, in 25. Social Practice / E. Policies / 4. Taxation ]

Full Idea

It is not on the basis of the amount of taxation that the burden is measured, but on the basis of the path they have to travel in order to return to the hands from which they came. If circulation is prompt and regular, the amount one pays is unimportant.

Gist of Idea

The amount of taxation doesn't matter, if it quickly circulates back to the citizens

Source

Jean-Jacques Rousseau (The Social Contract (tr Cress) [1762], III.08)

Book Reference

Rousseau,Jean-Jacques: 'The Basic Political Writings', ed/tr. Cress,Donald A. [Hackett 1987], p.187


A Reaction

So the problem is when the government wants to build up a surplus, or pay off debts (or is corrupt, or even if it is suspected of corruption).