This post is in response to the question “Would you give up a larger percentage of your income to have more “free” benefits from the government?” posed by
I believe that the answer to this question is subjective to the government program and the history and current income that the person answering it is operating under.
Under The Current U.S. Welfare System
Looking at the United States welfare system, most people that earn above livable wage would probably fall under the option that the government doesn’t need any more of their income as the amount that they collect in taxes has not greatly benefited them so far. Additionally, most people who genuinely are putting in the effort at work to support themselves, or a family, are going to be outwardly opposed to anyone taking a portion of their hard-earned income, even if it would help a less-fortunate population. However, those who have to utilize free services would probably be more willing to give up a larger part of their income as it benefits them now, and will continue to benefit them until their income rises to a level in which they have the freedom to choose different options for themselves.
How Personal History Contributes
From what I have seen, political party alliance plays a role in how willing people, particularly people with livable incomes, are to agree with tax increases for systems that do not directly benefit themselves. Also, the amount of income a person has plays a large role in how they might feel about higher taxes for the benefit of other people.
Those with extremely high incomes are giving up the largest sum, however, at the end of the day, they will still have a large amount of money leaving them more than well-off. Additionally, those with extremely low incomes are giving up the least and benefiting the most so they are likely to be in favor of supporting free government services. It is those who are earning enough to get by that are probably most staunchly opposed to giving up any more of their income as it cuts into things like retirement savings and vacation opportunities.
Overall, I believe the answer to this question truly depends on the individual and the state of the government they are operating under. As an example, my personal answer reflects both of these concepts. As a current part-time worker, and full-time college student, I would not be very willing to part with any more of my income at this point in life as the benefits I receive from the government do not outweigh the current cost of what I pay in income taxes. However, I fully believe this opinion could alter in the future as my life situation, and government welfare programs, continue to change.