Ricardo on Taxation

This text brings together David Ricardo's reasoning and conclusions on the major taxes, and tax systems, as found in his published works, correspondence, and memoranda. Ricardo attached the greatest importance to tax policy, arguing that "political economy, when the simple principles of it are once understood, is only useful, as it direct Governments to right measures in taxation". Indeed, the book, from which this quotation is taken, is entitled "On the Principles of Political Economy and Taxation". The present book is the first comprehensive, detailed description and analysis of Ricardo on taxation. Presenting ricardo's macro-economic system as background, it then devotes a chapter to each of the major taxes, and ends with an appraisal of Ricardo's tax analysis.