So here's my proposition: I want to take a mathematically derived portion of your money, once a month should be fine, in order to make some investments. Now, I understand your skepticism, but let me assure you I have your best interests at heart--if anything happens toyour car, or house, or if you need a bill paid, I'll be there to give you some of the money back, to help you through.

Of course, if I want to live off of my charity, I will need to limit expenses. So, here's a contract for you to sign, and I'll give you a voucher in return. The contract? Oh, it just guarantees that I can ask more and more from you if I ever have to pay you any of your money back. It also provides loopholes for me to sneak out of our deal, keeping your money, if I figure I'm going to start losing out on the deal.

Don't like that arrangement? Know you're talented enough to prevent a need for the money I might (or might not) provide? Sure, fine. That sounds good.

Oh, wait. I forgot. I was just elected (insert name of governmental office here) and so it's now required that you agree to this arrangement or face fines, confiscation of your property, or even imprisonment. Even if you never need the services I provide.

Sounds shity, right? Huh. Another thing. I see you are a bit behind in your taxes. I remember you wouldn't sell me that field out on the other side of the mountain I want for my whoreho... er, Luxury Hotel. Yeah. So here's the deal, and since I'm in charge of the (enter jurisdiction here) I'm gonna make it so I can put your land up for sale. Funny, I seem to have the highest bid, at exactly the $20 you owed in taxes.

Wait, you say you own the land? How naive. Those in elected power have the control of your lands, because of all the services we provide for you. Like what? Um... police, fire, etc. Never needed those though, huh? Tough luck, I suppose, old chap.

Really, what the situation is is this: I own all the land in my jurisdiction, bowing only to those lording over me, and if you don't provide a proper tribute, I will force you to pay monthly stipends in bulk housing. Just like you've done to my family for generations.

Democracy, it's a great thing.