Personally, I think there are inefficiencies in the military just like any other huge government program. I would cut spending in many areas since we are now officially 19 trillion dollars in debt.
I understand why we need a strong military, its not only about power but it does help protect the world from dictators and very bad groups/people. However, we should not be policing the world!
I can't speak a lot for other countries since I have only lived here but I believe strongly that we must preserve upward mobility. Being able rise up the economic ladder from being poor or middle class to become relatively successful and/or wealthy is the American dream and why many people immigrated here after WW1 and WW2. Opportunity & freedom from oppressive government rule. Same with the revolutionary war against England.
Any country that taxes their working people a lot will stifle upward mobility. Scandanavia is a good example of where it is nearly impossible for an average person to become wealthy. No, that sucks. Opportunity, Sacrifice and Reward drive people to do great things, take risks, go the extra mile (like being in school for 12yrs to become a doctor). Anytime things are just given and not earned, they are not appreciated as much. Remember, the multi-millionaires and billionaires don't make their money through salary. having high tax rates on salaried income just hurts the whole spectrum of the working middle class. I am good with cracking down on traders and hedge fund managers, etc...also good with preventing the ultra wealthy from hiding their money overseas or with fancy accountants. I am 100% for upward mobility and personal freedom.