Taxes and Growth

Taxes and Growth

I’ve explained the economics of taxation, which is based on the common-sense notion that you get less productive economic activity when taxes drive a bigger wedge between pre-tax income and post-tax consumption. Simply stated, the more you tax of something, the less...
Seattle Suicide

Seattle Suicide

What’s the most poorly governed city in the United States? San Francisco, where there are “poop patrols“? Chicago, which is spending itself into oblivion? New York City, home of America’s worst mayor? Those are all good options, but Seattle may deserve this award....
The Right Way to Adopt a Consumption Tax

The Right Way to Adopt a Consumption Tax

I’ve written dozens of columns explaining why it would be a terrible idea for the United States to enact a value-added tax. But that’s not because I think consumption taxes are worse than income taxes. Indeed, sales taxes and VATs are less destructive because tax...
Texas vs. California

Texas vs. California

Time for another edition of our long-running battle between the Lone Star State and the Golden State. Except it’s not really a battle since one side seems determined to lose. For instance, Mark Perry of the American Enterprise Institute often uses extensive tables...