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Optimal Taxation - Review of Theory
[Optimální zdanění - přehled dosavadní teorie]

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  • Květa Kubátová

Abstract

The overview article provides information on the status of the theory of optimal taxation. The aim was to provide an overview of the latest research in particular in the field of optimal taxation, to allow the survey to provide inspiration to the creation and application of models for the purpose of tax reform in the Czech Republic. Finding the optimal tax is balancing between tax efficiency and tax equity. The starting point for the current theory are the classical models of Ramsey (1927), Mirrlees (1971), Diamond and Mirrlees (1971), possibly a newer contribution of Atkinson and Stiglitz (1987). Current models of optimal taxation extend knowledge about the inclusion of variables such as administrative costs, tax evasion, externalities, intergenerational distribution, public debt, market imperfections. Some are also more disaggregated on different income groups of households or households with different earning capacity, different markets, etc. However, the one aspect of the matter is the tax theory and the second is the practical implementation of tax reforms. The reform is based on certain state tax system, and establish an entirely new state is politically unrealistic. Another problem is lack of information on key parameters (such as elasticity of demand, elasticity of substitution between goods, etc.).

Suggested Citation

  • Květa Kubátová, 2009. "Optimal Taxation - Review of Theory [Optimální zdanění - přehled dosavadní teorie]," Český finanční a účetní časopis, Prague University of Economics and Business, vol. 2009(3), pages 24-36.
    • Handle: RePEc:prg:jnlcfu:v:2009:y:2009:i:3:id:34:p:24-36
    DOI: 10.18267/j.cfuc.34
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Optimal taxes; Tax theory; Optimal income tax; Optimal consumption tax; Optimální daně; Daňová teorie; Optimální důchodová daň; Optimální spotřební daň;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • H21 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - Efficiency; Optimal Taxation

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