[rjplatte]

Would you agree that Amazon has bettered your life in some way? If so, then your argument loses most of its weight. Personally, I trust a corporation with money more than the federal government, for the simple reason of accountability. A business has a chance at failure if they're dumb about money. A government will always have more. It's simple, but a compelling argument.

[jachee]

I don't understand your reasoning here. I've given amazon money for products and/or services, and I've paid my share of taxes on those transactions.

It's not like they've ensured my roads are safe, my food is safe, my healthcare is taken care of, and that laws are enforced. Also, I'm not so selfish to think I'm the only one who should be helped here. The greater good of society matters more than me as an individual.

Why shouldn't amazon pay their share of taxes for those things, (some) of which they're undoubtedly taking advantage?

[candybar]

From an economic perspective, there's no difference between the sales tax that is paid by the seller or by the buyer. So it's not correct for you to take credit for the taxes paid on the transactions between you and Amazon - the economic burden is shared by both parties. Likewise, Amazon pays the payroll tax and any income tax that is paid by its employees, effectively increases the cost of transaction between Amazon and its employees, making it a shared burden by both parties.