Materialism (Economic Exploitation): Reinstate Taxes on the Wealthy and Corporations

Immediately repeal the tax cuts initiated by the Bush administration that benefit the wealthy and develop an equitable tax policy that accomplishes the dual objective of requiring those individuals that earn more pay a greater percentage of the income and requiring corporations to pay their fair share by eliminating the tax loopholes.

While materialism surges around us seemly unchecked by common sense or morality, the most extreme form is the political manipulation by the rich to deprive the government of a fair share of the resources they have generated. This is the most extreme form of materialism since it deprives the government of the resources necessary to maintain a balance between the economic classes in the country. Since as people of color we find ourselves at the bottom of the economic spectrum, our very survival depends upon just policies of redistribution.

Without government intervention through taxation and other regulatory policies, there is nothing to protect the less well off from the domination and oppression of those who are doing well. The most glaring American historical example occurred during the nineteen twenties when corporate greed soared unchecked, destroying the economy and plunging the country into depression. F.D.R. was viewed by many of the rich as an enemy of his class. In fact, he was the best friend they had since his redistributive policies enabled him to stave off the revolutionary forces that were attracting the attention of frustrated white workers.

In advocating for a progressive tax policy, which takes more from those who have more, we must keep in mind that it is government that creates the environment in which individuals and corporations can establish firm economic foundations as well as financial assets significant enough to be described as wealth. At the most straightforward level, without fire and police services, businesses of all sizes would be unable to operate. Roads and transportation systems are as essential for business operation as they are for individuals. Government contracts play a major role in the wealth of individuals and corporations of this country. Without a doubt, the $167 billion dollars pumped into our economy has played a significant role in the stock market surge. It is only fair that the government gets a equitable share back fir redistributive purposes since corporations consider only the bottom line.