In the UK, I’ve seen estimates of 70% across a lifetime when you factor in the various other taxes besides income tax and national insurance (which go up the more you earn), such as fuel duty, VAT on purchases and bills, air passenger duty, capital gains tax, stamp duty, road tax, inheritance tax, pension tax, council tax, corporation tax, alcohol duty, (and other excise duties), parking fees and more! 

 it used to be a good deal, until the Americans took over our NHS, politcs and economy. 

 I see it more as our “leaders” blindly following the US model. 

 Its both.  US owned  health companies are running parts of the NHS and have been lobbying our politicians, interfering in our elections  for decades.  Mike Pompeo publicly admitted he would not allow Corbyn to be elected. 

 Yes, but we let them. Can only blame ourselves. 

 No we can definitely blame corrupt politicians for their corruption. 

 Yes, after we voted them into power. 

 Not true either. The huge majority of the public did not vote for our govnt.  Only about 37% did. That's the problem.  There's nothing democratic about FPTP. 

 My point is rather than blame and moan what are you doing about it? 

 Well, Im trying to educate, clearly that people do not understand properly how our system works and why we are in this predicament.  What are you doing to overthrow one of the most corrupt govnts on earth?  Its a collective problem, so for me it is organising and campaigning to overthrow the entire system. 

 Well, a word of advice. Try not to jump to conclusions and make assumptions when educating those you know nothing about and have never met. I’m up for changing the system though, so keep me posted with your campaigns. 

 I don't do that.  Maybe you should take your own advice.