Answer:
The benefits received principle states that individuals should pay taxes in proportion to the benefits they receive from government services, while the ability to pay principle asserts that individuals should pay taxes in proportion to their income or wealth.
A) Gasoline tax: This tax is more closely aligned with the benefits received principle, as it is often used to fund road construction and maintenance, and those who use more gasoline (i.e., drive more) typically benefit more from these services.
B) Federal income tax: This tax is more closely aligned with the ability to pay principle, as it is based on an individual's income and ability to pay, rather than the specific benefits they receive from government services.
C) Tax on Social Security benefits: This tax is somewhat controversial, as Social Security benefits are often seen as a form of earned income, rather than a government service. However, some argue that those who receive higher Social Security benefits should pay more taxes on those benefits, which would align with the benefits received principle.
In summary, the gasoline tax is more closely aligned with the benefits received principle, the federal income tax is more closely aligned with the ability to pay principle, and the tax on Social Security benefits could be argued to align with either principle, depending on one's perspective.