Quote:
Originally Posted by HarryT
We must agree to differ. Personally I find tax evasion to be rather despicable. It's essentially stealing from everyone in society. I certainly see nothing admirable in it.
|
I agree that there is certainly nothing admirable about it. However, I don't regard it as particularly despicable, nor do I regard it as stealing from Society. Unlike avoidance, which is within the law, evasion, a term I presume you use deliberately, is not. I don't condone tax evasion, but I certainly don't despise those who engage in it. Most tax systems are progressive on paper but in practical operation are extremely regressive. And ridiculously complicated. And with many avoidance (as opposed to evasion) opportunities available to particular taxpayers who can afford good accountants and lawyers. Which, of course, although within the law, also leads to higher taxes for the rest of society. Evasion, usually small scale, by other taxpayer's is not a good thing, but it is not robbery nor is it usually something I would class as reprehensible. It is also made very easy for an evader to rationalise by reference to large scale avoidance and out of control government spending.
Yes, evasion is against the law and I don't encourage it. But I certainly unerstand it and am not without some sympathy.