Taxes can be progressive, regressive, or proportional. Define each, and briefly offer an argument for why income taxes are usually progressive.

Question: Define progressive, regressive, and proportional taxes, and explain why income taxes are usually progressive. Answer: A progressive tax is a tax system in which the tax rate increases as income increases, meaning individuals with higher income pay a higher percentage of their income in taxes. A regressive tax is a tax system where the tax rate decreases as income increases, resulting in people with lower incomes paying a higher percentage of their income in taxes. A proportional tax, also known as a flat tax, is a tax system where everyone pays the same percentage of their income, regardless of their income level. Income taxes are usually progressive due to the ability-to-pay principle, which suggests that individuals with higher incomes can afford to pay a greater proportion of their earnings in taxes. This approach is considered more equitable, helps reduce income inequality, provides funding for social programs and public services, eases the tax burden on lower-income individuals, and alleviates poverty.