"Here is my principle: Taxes shall be levied according to ability to pay. That is the only American principle"

Franklin D. Roosevelt's quote speaks to the concept of tax based upon one's capability to pay. This concept is rooted in the idea of fairness and equality, as those with more resources should be expected to pay more in taxes than those with fewer resources. This principle is also in line with the American worths of justice and equality, as it ensures that everybody is paying their reasonable share. This principle is also useful to the economy, as it ensures that those with more resources are contributing more to the general public coffers, which can be used to money public services and infrastructure. Eventually, Roosevelt's quote speaks to the concept that tax need to be based on one's ability to pay, which is an important American concept.