[zeugma]

Too bad that this article doesn't take into account the rest of the huge burden of taxation that we taxpayers bear. On top of the percentages listed above, add in sales tax, auto registration "fees", property taxes, state taxes, fees for drivers licenses and other similarly mandated documents, the "social security" scam, and the many other hidden taxes that are passed onto us as consumers. The total burden is much more than even double the top rate listed above.

The Dallas Federal Reserve Bank had an interesting survey on inflation vs. wages in their annual report a few years ago. It was interesting how they tried to claim the parity in buying power today compared to a century ago, yet they never once mentioned the damage done to earning power by the continually rising levels of taxation we experienced over the same time.

[Reeses]

Also include the hidden John Edwards tax, which works out to $600 per year. How many of us realize we are required to buy $600 in trial lawyer lotto tickets every year? The payout isn't that good, the lawyers take more than half in fees and admin costs. Worse, it modifies our behavior to live in financial fear. If you throw a party at your house and invite your neighbors you're personally responsible for all fall downs, drunks, and anything bad that happens.