Richest Are Leaving Even the Rich Far Behind

            This article reminded me of why I do not understand the American tax system.   If the very rich are making so much more money than everyone else, why shouldn’t a higher proportion of their income be taxed?  At such income levels, I personally do not understand why anyone would need so much money and I do not think that the highest paid individuals in America would even feel the increased tax burden as much as those who are in lower tax brackets.  True, this would mean that the most highly paid individuals are supporting more than their fair share, but if I were in their position and had a large amount of money, I would think that living in a better society would be worth the extra taxes.      

            While reading this article, I also began to wonder what percentage of the richest people in America play an active role in shaping American politics and policies.  How many of the top earners in America influence the voting and political processes by donating/contributing to certain politicians’ campaign?  And how does this relationship between contributor and receiver shape what laws may be passed, particularly those relating to tax cuts and so forth?