The root of all evil

[John Galt]

There has just been a discussion on the radio regarding charitable donations. A gentleman was proposing that everyone should give away 10% of their earnings to charity as it would make them feel more fulfilled and happier with their lot.

Why are people these days made to feel so guilty about earning a good living and using the proceeds to enjoy their life? You only get one so shouldn't you be able to enjoy the fruits of your labour? A vast proportion of my earnings go to the country's largest charity - it's called HM revenue and customs.

[boredsenseless]

There has just been a discussion on the radio regarding charitable donations. A gentleman was proposing that everyone should give away 10% of their earnings to charity as it would make them feel more fulfilled and happier with their lot.

Why are people these days made to feel so guilty about earning a good living and using the proceeds to enjoy their life? You only get one so shouldn't you be able to enjoy the fruits of your labour? A vast proportion of my earnings go to the country's largest charity - it's called HM revenue and customs.

And if its imposed or even expected that everyone gives away 10% to charity then its not really giving and you won't get that warm fuzzy feeling it will be more like an optional tax

[ladymuck]

I always go by the 'charity begins at home' rule. Therefore I donate to myself as much as I possibly can.

Can an individual be a registered charity and therefore attract tax relief? Hmm...

[stackpole]

I used to make regular donations to various charities, until Gordon Brown started increasing my regular donations to his social projects.

I can't pay for both, and since I have no choice with Gordon, I'm afraid the rest now go without.

[Scaroth of the Jagaroth]

There have been quite a few theories linking the level of voluntary charitable donations to the amount of tax you pay. The (western) example usually cited is the USA where voluntary donations to charity far exceed any seem in European countries. The theory being that the more tax you pay, the more you think "it's not my problem".

[Fungus]

A vast proportion of my earnings go to the country's largest charity - it's called HM revenue and customs.

They care for the feeble minded don't they?

Fungus

[TGAOTU]

Charities keep a lot of people gainfully employed...

Do some digging into the costs of running charities and the benefits they provide... Yes I know that some benefit is better than none... but...

TGAOTU.