Perfectly Legal: The Covert Campaign to Rig Our Tax System to Benefit the Super Rich--and Cheat Everybody Else : Book Review

"Perfectly Legal" by David Cay Johnston is a captivating exposé that delves deep into the complexities of the United States taxation system. It uncovers the ways in which the wealthiest individuals and corporations exploit loopholes to avoid paying their fair share, revealing the staggering inequality and injustice that persist within it.

Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist David Cay Johnston, this book presents a thoroughly researched and well-documented analysis of the American tax structure. It challenges the common misconception that the system is fair and provides eye-opening evidence of how the wealthy elite manipulate tax laws to their advantage. Johnston argues that the burden of taxes falls disproportionately on the middle and working class, while the rich enjoy substantial tax breaks and shelters.

One of the strengths of this book is its ability to explain complex tax concepts and legal jargon in an accessible way. Johnston's journalistic background shines through as he presents the information in a clear and concise manner, making it easy for readers to understand the intricacies of the subject. He also provides historical context, tracing the evolution of the tax system and highlighting the pivotal moments where policies favoring the wealthy were implemented.

Moreover, Johnston exposes the political and economic forces at play in shaping the tax system. He sheds light on the lobbying power of big corporations and the influence they exert on tax legislation. He argues that substantial reforms are needed to break the cycle of tax evasion and inequality that currently exists.

"Perfectly Legal" is a thought-provoking and meticulously researched investigation into the injustices of the American taxation system. It serves as a wake-up call, urging readers to question the fairness of the system and advocate for change. Johnston's expertise and narrative skill make this book essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of taxation and its implications for society.

What are readers saying?

David Cay Johnston's book "Perfectly Legal" has received a diverse range of reviews. There are readers who commend the author's insightful analysis of taxation and corporate greed, while others have criticized the book for its biased nature and lack of depth.

Positive reviews highlight Johnston's ability to break down complex tax issues and expose how the wealthy manipulate the system for their own advantage. Readers appreciate the thorough research and attention to detail that provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. They find the book informative and eye-opening, shedding light on the loopholes and inequalities within the tax system.

However, negative reviews argue that Johnston fails to offer a balanced perspective and instead allows his personal bias and political agenda to overshadow the factual information presented. Critics claim that his arguments can be one-sided and that he overlooks certain aspects of the tax system that may oppose his viewpoint.

Some readers find the writing style of "Perfectly Legal" to be dry and challenging to engage with, making it difficult to sustain their interest in the topic. They criticize the book for being excessively technical and dense, limiting its accessibility to a wider audience.

Additionally, a few reviewers express disappointment with the book's organization, citing a lack of coherence between chapters and an excessive amount of data. They argue that the book could have benefitted from better structuring and more compelling storytelling to keep readers fully engaged.

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