As we find ourselves in the throes of an election year, we’re confronted with a multitude of complex and pressing conversations. One such conversation that stands out concerns our economic systems and the governance that guides them.
I stand for an economic model that champions competition, propels growth, and has consistently demonstrated its capacity to generate wealth and elevate living standards. This model, when functioning optimally, serves as a catalyst for innovation and prosperity.
Often, our early experiences shape our worldview. Many of us were raised in familial environments where decisions were made collectively for the good of the whole – a principle that influences our perspectives and may even shape our political leanings later in life.
Interestingly, in the digital era, we see diverse economic ideologies gaining momentum on social media platforms. This dynamic showcases the broad spectrum of political thought and the potential for ideological shifts across generations. Observing this cycle, one might notice a pattern: a generation that battles for freedoms, followed by a generation that enjoys these freedoms, and then a generation that might forget the true value of these hard-won freedoms.
In this context, we find ourselves in a political environment where historical models of governance are being revisited and reinterpreted. This isn’t a simple binary dialogue, but a nuanced discussion about the complexities of governance itself.
In this fascinating political landscape, we, as the hardworking populace, often find ourselves carrying a significant tax burden. This burden feels especially heavy when it appears to undermine the incentives for risk-taking and investment that could otherwise drive our economy.
Recently, I had a stimulating discussion on the NZ Politics Podcast with Robin Oliver, an expert in tax economics and policy. Robin’s insights, informed by his work on the Sapere Report and his extensive experience in the field, are invaluable in understanding the nuances of our economic landscape.
This conversation isn’t designed to overturn your views on wealth tax, but to expand your understanding of the counterarguments. It’s important to stay informed and critically engage with how our hard-earned wealth is managed.
Crucially, we should remember that connection and community extend beyond the realm of government. They should be nurtured within our families and wider communities. The cost of governance should be a small fraction of our GDP. If governmental performance declines, we should demand cost reductions, just as we would in any household.
It’s noteworthy that a significant portion of our taxes has been used to challenge those who have achieved success through their hard work and innovation. Such actions can have far-reaching implications, potentially driving the successful to other shores and contributing to significant societal shifts.
