2021.9.16

     Today, we discussed about the tax and judge systems in the same group from the last class. These two points are as significant as the political system and sharing opinions became an interesting experience to deepen my understanding.

     There were mainly three points to consider about the tax system. Firstly, we reached the conclusion that charities have no need to pay tax. NGO and NPO refer to an organization that solves problems and creates a better society without the purpose of profit. Considering that they are a non-profit and tax can be a huge burden on them, not mandating it would help them to follow their attempt. Secondly, products such as woman's sanitary items should get tax remissions to proceed gender equality. Lastly, religious churches should pay taxes. Unlike many western countries, there are numerous kinds of religion in Japan including the newly-risen ones that give out negative influence on society. Not all of them have churches and it would be unequal to exempt certain religions from tax. Moreover, most Japanese people don't have religion close to their daily lives.

     Mr.Paterson also introduced the controversial topic of penalty to tax evasion. Poor people steal money in a clearer way such as violence and get heavy punishment. Meanwhile, rich people steal a tremendous amount of money by not paying taxes and get a light punishment. The current situation is unfair and tax evasion should be treated more heavily. Still, I think that the death penalty or life sentence is too much as the crime is not hurting or killing people.