4. All the citizens have a right to decide, either personally or by their representatives, as to the necessity of the public contribution; to grant this freely; to know to what uses it is put; and to fix the proportion, the mode of assessment and of collection and the duration of the taxes.

Imagine a time when kings reigned supreme and subjects had little say in how their hard-earned money was spent. The idea that citizens should have a voice in taxation evolved through history, fueled by revolutions and the rise of democratic thought. Influential thinkers like John Locke and Thomas Jefferson championed the notion that "no taxation without representation" was a fundamental right. This paved the way for the modern democratic systems we see today, where people have the power to influence budget decisions and tax laws. In our day-to-day lives, the principle of having a say in public contributions manifests through local voting, town hall meetings, and even online surveys from city councils. Citizens participate in shaping their communities by voicing their opinions on tax proposals and how funds are allocated—whether it’s for education, infrastructure, or public safety. Engaging with local representatives and expressing concerns ensures that public contributions reflect the needs of the community, turning taxpayer dollars into community improvements!