>>In 2011, the top 10% of the earners paid 70% of Federal Income taxes:
>>
>>http://www.heritage.org/budgetchartbook/top10-percent-income-earners
>>
>>I would say that this is indeed unfair. As you said, everyone should pay their fair share.
>
>Since, according to this : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distribution_of_wealth , the top 10% own 70% of the wealth I wonder why you regard the tax structure as unfair?


Because federal income tax is based on income, not wealth.

In order to compare you need to look at income distribution: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Income_distribution

The problems:
1. 48% of americans pay zero income tax
2. the so-called wealthy are taxed exorbitantly
3. and the super-wealthy can afford accountants to find loopholes such that their effective tax rate is significantly less than the wealthy and often less than the middle-class. As Buffet put it, he pays a lower tax rate than his secretary. http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2011/aug/18/warren-buffett/warren-buffett-says-super-rich-pay-lower-taxes-oth/