One alternative item to tax that would be more efficient based on economic theory and the article are Pigouvian taxes, which are taxes on goods that have a negative externality. This tax would be more efficient because it would reduce the negative externality of pollution and provide an incentive for people to use less gasoline.
A negative externality is a cost imposed on society that is not factored into the market price. For example, pollution from cars imposes costs on society in the form of health problems and environmental damage. A Pigouvian tax on gasoline would increase the price of gasoline to account for these costs and encourage people to drive less or use more fuel-efficient cars.
In contrast, a tax on soda would not address a negative externality and would likely be regressive, meaning it would disproportionately affect low-income individuals who spend a higher percentage of their income on soda. Additionally, the article mentioned that there are already many taxes on soda, and further taxing it may not significantly reduce consumption.
In contrast, a Pigouvian tax on gasoline would be a new tax that would effectively address a negative externality. Overall, Pigouvian taxes are a more efficient way to tax because they internalize the costs of negative externalities and encourage individuals to make more socially optimal choices.
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