Quote by Calvin Coolidge, Inaugural addre
The collection of any taxes which are not absolutely required, which do not beyond reasonable doubt contribute to the public welfare, is only a species of legalized larceny. Under this republic the rewards of industry belong to those who earn them. The only constitutional tax is the tax which ministers to public necessity. The property of the country belongs to the people of the country. Their title is absolute. They do not support any privileged class; they do not need to maintain great military forces; they ought not to be burdened with a great array of public employees. They are not required to make any contribution to Government expenditures except that which they voluntarily assess upon themselves through the action of their own representatives. Whenever taxes become burdensome a remedy can be applied by the people; but if they do not act for themselves, no one can be very successful in acting for them.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the belief that unnecessary taxes are essentially a form of legalized theft. It argues that the only legitimate taxes are those that serve essential public needs, rather than benefiting a privileged class or funding excessive government expenses. According to the quote, the property of the country belongs to its people, and they should not be burdened with excessive taxes or a large bureaucracy. It suggests that citizens have the power to address burdensome taxes through their representatives, and encourages individual action in advocating for their own interests in order to enact change.
Topics
Taxation
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