[Bonaparte]

RST would be a step up from the income tax, but it too has some problems. Cheating is one, which is why the rate would have to be set fairly high and enforcement costs would be far from negligible.

[Ditto]

"Cheating is one, which is why the rate would have to be set fairly high and enforcement costs would be far from negligible."

I'm sure there would be cheating, as there is in all systems. But consider that enforcement would not be directed at 300 million citizens as it is now, but only at retail level sales. Is Wall Mart going to risk jail time by not charging? Like state sales taxes, it presents a much more managable enforcement problem than income taxes.

[Principled]

...the rate would have to be set fairly high and enforcement costs would be far from negligible.

Not so Bonaparte. Compliance would be higher, and costs lower.

Look here and click "tax evasion"