Taxes not same thing as socialism

Re: “Socialism costs money; get used to it,” letter, March 11. I’m scratching my head over the writer’s equating taxes with socialism. Merriam-Webster defines socialism as any of various economic and political theories advocating collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods. I’ve not heard any recognized political party or politician seriously advocating socialism for more than 50 years.

Taxes protect our property rights by paying for services such as the Land Title and Survey Office. Taxes pay for police and fire protection and support our legal system. Our taxsupported educational system makes us literate and prepares us for citizenship and employment.

Taxes pay for our medical and public-health systems, and public infrastructure such as roads and bridges.

It’s difficult to imagine how society could function without taxes.

Benjamin Franklin is credited with having said: “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” Harvey Williams Victoria