Uploaded July 2018 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
In this episode of Functional Philosophy, I answer the following questions:
1. "I was curious about the idea of taxation in objectivism. I've heard objectivists say countless times that involuntary taxation is wrong and I agree. However, I don't understand how else a government, even confined to its legitimate roles, can be supported without some form of tax. What is an alternative to taxation that fits within the framework of objectivism?"
2. "Something that has confused me about Objectivism is the idea of 'Voluntary taxation'. How is this not a blatant contradiction. Taxation is, by definition, compulsory. 1. Is this just a word game to avoid calling for the abolishment of taxation? 2. Regardless of what you call it, voluntary taxation or no taxation, how would this not lead to anarchy? Once it is a voluntary choice you necessarily create a market. I could contribute to this organization or that one. How would you maintain a monopoly in a free market?"
3. "I just watched your video on Objectivism vs Libertarianism and I have a question. I understand Objectivists support a government that protects your rights, but I see that as a contradiction. If the state is an organization premised on stealing an individuals income, is that not already a violation of the individuals rights? If it's not clear already, I'll just let you know I'm coming from an Anarcho Capitalist point of view. So my question is this, is taxation a violation of property rights and if so, how do you justify it?"
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Functional Philosophy is the show in which Objectivist philosopher Charles Tew helps you gain and strengthen the philosophical foundations required to achieve certainty, success, and happiness. If you're curious to see how Ayn Rand's philosophy of Objectivism can bring revolutionary clarity to your life, give it a listen.
Website: charlestew.com
Podcast: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/functional-philosophy/id1242722316?mt=2
Patreon: patreon.com/charlestew
In this episode of Functional Philosophy, I answer the following questions:
1. "I was curious about the idea of taxation in objectivism. I've heard objectivists say countless times that involuntary taxation is wrong and I agree. However, I don't understand how else a government, even confined to its legitimate roles, can be supported without some form of tax. What is an alternative to taxation that fits within the framework of objectivism?"
2. "Something that has confused me about Objectivism is the idea of 'Voluntary taxation'. How is this not a blatant contradiction. Taxation is, by definition, compulsory. 1. Is this just a word game to avoid calling for the abolishment of taxation? 2. Regardless of what you call it, voluntary taxation or no taxation, how would this not lead to anarchy? Once it is a voluntary choice you necessarily create a market. I could contribute to this organization or that one. How would you maintain a monopoly in a free market?"
3. "I just watched your video on Objectivism vs Libertarianism and I have a question. I understand Objectivists support a government that protects your rights, but I see that as a contradiction. If the state is an organization premised on stealing an individuals income, is that not already a violation of the individuals rights? If it's not clear already, I'll just let you know I'm coming from an Anarcho Capitalist point of view. So my question is this, is taxation a violation of property rights and if so, how do you justify it?"
***
Functional Philosophy is the show in which Objectivist philosopher Charles Tew helps you gain and strengthen the philosophical foundations required to achieve certainty, success, and happiness. If you're curious to see how Ayn Rand's philosophy of Objectivism can bring revolutionary clarity to your life, give it a listen.
Website: charlestew.com
Podcast: itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/functional-philosophy/id1242722316?mt=2
Patreon: patreon.com/charlestew
