Right-wing logic

In an article in the LA Times, GOP Pollster and consultant Frank Luntz actually defends his Orwellian use of language. I think the article is a graphic demonstration of how totally illogical and given over to the worst kind of sophistry these folks are:

"For example, why not use the term "death tax" for the taxes paid on an estate? What is the event that triggers it? I pay a sales tax when I am involved with a sale, and I pay income tax when I earn income. And when I die, if I'm successful and forget to hire smart accountants, I may pay a tax. What else would you call that other than a death tax — a "permanent sleep tax"?"

To wit:

For example, why not use the term "death tax" for the taxes paid on an estate?

Because they are paid on an estate, not on a death. As you just said.

What is the event that triggers it?

Inheritance. Not death. If it was a death tax, it would apply to everyone who dies. It doesn't. It applies only to those who inherit.

What else would you call that other than a death tax — a "permanent sleep tax"?

An estate tax or an inheritance tax. Which is what it's called. Because that's what's being taxed. Duh.

Keep in mind that this transparent codswollop was written by one of their intellectuals. And a 12-year-old would recognize how poor these points are after 5 minutes of serious thought.

Imagine that.

Perhaps we can institute an Orwellian Language Tax.

Luntz would go broke.