[gfxgirl]

Sure, but then add in 21% VAT tax. Not defending the US but a 3% fee + (0%-11%) added sales tax doesn't seem like it would be a bigger "weight on the system" than a 21% VAT tax

[unglaublich]

The 21% is used to evolve and invest in a country which ultimately will lead to further economic growth whereas the 3% is used to enrich CC companies.

[bakuninsbart]

VAT pays for our free schools and healthcare, transaction fees go into banks coffers. For you as an individual, some things are more expensive to purchase in Europe, sure, but I think equivocating the two is false.

E: I didn't read the guy you were answering closely enough. In the context of his comment, yours of course makes perfect sense.