[Principled]

Of course when they buy stuff, just like today, taxes get paid

But today, they only pay a portion of their tax burden. Remember they don't pay payroll or income tax, just the hidden taxes (and tax costs). Under the nrst, their entire tax burden comes from what they pay on the nrst.

It's just plain you missed that now there are 3 places (at least). Under the nrst, 100% of one's burden is paid at purchases.

[Always Right]

But today, they only pay a portion of their tax burden. Remember they don't pay payroll or income tax, just the hidden taxes (and tax costs).

That's just an assumption. It is just as valid to assume the cost burden (including payroll taxes) ultimately falls on the consumer reguardless of who actually submits the tax. The important thing for analysis purposes, is to keep that assumption consistant.