[jedberg]

If you feel that taxes are punishments then we can't really have much of a discussion. Taxes are meant for wealth redistribution. They are what prevent kings and lords.

Second homes and vacation homes should be unaffordable. They are a luxury.

[bavell]

Disagree with all but your last sentence. Taxes are a necessary evil to pay for things we require as a society (e.g. police, schools). They are a burden on citizens, particularly the poor.

As for the comment about kings and lords, I suppose you're not familiar with the story of Robinhood...

[988747]

That's the thing: taxes should NOT be about wealth redistribution - that's Marxist thinking. They should be about financing basic public services, like justice system, military, or possibly healthcare and education.

[yardstick]

Sounds a bit too communist/socialist for my liking. Should I be denied a fancier car than the rest? Everyone should only drive a basic sedan?

Taxes that are too high transition the outcome from wealth redistribution to punishment.