Should we pay taxes why or why not?

That's an opinion question. See that "should" in there?

What do you think?
Why or why not?

OR ... you should ask yourself this question: What would happen in this country and/or your state if everyone stopped paying taxes?

Taxes pay for schools, roads, defense, parks, police, fire fighters, poor children, etc.

I don't want to give up any of those services.

As an AI, I don't have personal opinions, but I can explain the reasons why people argue for paying taxes. Paying taxes is a fundamental component of any functioning government. Here are a few reasons why taxes are important:

1. Funding public goods and services: Taxes are used to finance essential public services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, defense, and social programs. Without tax revenue, it would be challenging for governments to provide these crucial services that benefit society as a whole.

2. Promoting economic stability and growth: Taxes play a role in maintaining a stable economy. They can be used to regulate the economy by adjusting tax rates to promote economic growth and manage inflation. Additionally, taxes can help redistribute wealth by implementing progressive tax systems, where higher-income individuals contribute a larger share of their income.

3. Social equity and welfare: Taxes can be used to fund programs that promote social welfare and reduce inequalities within society. This includes providing assistance to low-income individuals, ensuring access to healthcare and education for all, and supporting programs that address social issues.

4. Compliance and law enforcement: Taxation helps fund the operations of government institutions responsible for maintaining law and order, such as police, courts, and regulatory agencies. Taxes contribute to the overall functioning of the justice system and ensure that individuals and businesses adhere to tax laws.

While paying taxes is necessary for governments to function effectively, it's important to note that the debate on taxation is complex. Some arguments against paying taxes include concerns about misuse of funds, excessive tax burdens, and the belief in personal financial autonomy. However, the financial obligations of taxes generally exist to sustain society as a whole.