How the hell did a discussion about taxes turn into this ridiculous debate?

The government of The United States of America is a government by name and definition, not a business.

Government is not a business, though many feel that it would be more efficient if run like one. On the other hand, governments do own businesses

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Government-owned_corporation

Not sure that the existence of government offices is a directory listing really means much of anything.

TT