> The funds then are redirected to a sclerotic and uncaring state, and then the productive people are shamed when they ask for less of it to be taken.

In republican governments, yes this is real.

In democrat governments, the vast majority of taxes goes into productive issues such as education, transportation, and healthcare. Even the type of bills passed by democrats are friendly towards building a society.

Now, YOU may not want to pay for other's education, transportation, and healthcare. But a lot of people appreciate that access to high quality is not merely limited to the wealthy. This is why you'll see amazing companies in blue states vs red, you'll see amazing companies starting during blue federal governments vs red.

The data is very clear on what produces great outcomes for society. You might not want others to get a decent life but you need to admit your selfishness.