Church tax exemption is very much debated. Although several countries require church members to pay a tax, many consider churches as tax-exempt. In discussions related to this policy, a nation’s perception of religious freedom and the common good is pivotal. Does the tax-exempt status of churches protect or violate these values?
Yes, churches should pay taxes
The tax-exempt status of churches threatens religious freedom and the common good by sowing the seeds of injustices.
Tax-exemption of churches violates religious freedom
In a society that values freedom of religion, churches' special treatment from the government is unacceptable.
The tax-exempt status of churches protects religious freedom and the common good by making it easier for churches to survive and do positive work for their community.
Tax-exemption of churches protects religious freedom
If the government can tax churches, they could restrict religious freedom in other ways.
The tax-exempt status of churches enables charity work
If churches were taxed, they would be unable to contribute to the common good. The extra revenue that churches reap from their lack of taxes filters back into their communities in real and tangible ways that cannot be said for many of the larger corporations.
