From a governmental perspective, taxing something positive (e.g. income, wages) functions as a disincentive
(it discourages people from doing it),
but each's goals are aligned (when people earn more income, so too does the government, thus they both want said thing).
Conversely, taxing something negative
(e.g. sin taxes, tobacco, gambling, alcohol (like Russia))
creates a disincentive / barrier to said negative thing
but also creates a negative relationship where the government benefits when the citizens suffer.
(See also perverse incentive)
US as a tax haven:
The US receives tax & asset information of American assets & income abroad, but does not share information about what happens in the United States with other countries.
Oh, of the remaining, you want to spend some of that?
I'll have to charge you an extra 5-13% for that.
Inflation tax
Oh, you didn't spend that remainder immediately?
Trying to be wise with what you have?
We're going to debase the currency by printing more of it out of thin air
to cover our expenses from our unbalanced budget (we're the government, we can do that),
AKA increasing supply, thus lowering the value
Property tax
Oh, you managed to save up enough debased currency to get yourself a little property?
Better than paying rent?
Well you will need to fork over a couple thousand for the privilege, every year.
Call it a subscription.
Capital gains tax
Oh, you invested some of the remainder of our inflated currency into
the national economy, helping our country's businesses?
We're taking 10 to 40% of any profits.
You lived a good life. You made it to the end.
You worked hard and saved some to give to your children; How generous.
Buuuuut you gave more than we like so we need to take some of that too.
You know, for the good of society? RIP you.
