Understanding Our Current Tax System

Schedule:

Session One: Tuesday March 3, 2009
The Economics of Taxation
Dr. Garett Jones
Assistant Professor of Economics
George Mason University

 Click Here to view Dr. Jones's Powerpoint Presentation.

Session Two: Wednesday March 4, 2009
Breaking Down the Tax Burden
Dr. Sarah Nutter
Associate Professor of Accounting
George Mason University

 Click Here to view Dr. Nutter's Powerpoint Presentation.

Taxation has always been a major part of American politics and continues to be a focus for debate and discussion.  Policymakers aim to create a tax system that meets the government’s needs and goals yet does not hinder the individual or corporation to a significant extent.  To better understand the economics of taxation and our current tax system, the Mercatus Center at George Mason University is pleased to present a two-day course on the American Tax System.

As April 15th approaches and families and corporations start filing tax returns, the affect of taxes becomes more apparent.  How will taxes influence firms’ and people’s actions and how will it affect the economy as a whole?  To better understand the economics of taxation, Dr. Garett Jones of George Mason University will provide a fundamental overview and explore how shifts in tax policy affect individual behavior and the economy as a whole.

With tax cuts being implemented and more people being subject to the Alternative Minimum Tax, the sources of our federal income is likely to shift. To take a more intricate look at our current tax system, Dr. Sarah Nutter of George Mason University will present a detailed analysis of our federal income and examine such issues as the tax burden, progressive and regressive tax systems and the Alternative Minimum Tax.

Join us as we examine such questions as:

• What factors do economists consider when studying tax policy?
• How do taxes affect the incentives of individuals and firms?
• What are the economic and social trade-offs of different types of taxes and taxation systems?
• What does the demographic breakdown of our American tax burden look like?
• How will tax cuts change where our federal revenue comes from?