[colinmhayes]

The problem with "just let individuals choose" arguments is that our population seems to be extremely opposed to taxes that counteract externalities. Of course we should let people choose, but when their choice harms others we have to either charge them more or force them into making a different choice. I'd prefer taxes, but bans seem much easier politically.

[imtringued]

It is considered "social engineering" if your tax internalizes costs. I honestly have no idea how people come up with these arguments.

Surely, secretly subsidizing harmful behaviour is twice as bad, first due to the subsidy itself and second for the harm it causes to other people.