By direct taxation of income, the government is primarily seeking to?

The government primarily seeks to redistribute wealth through direct taxation of income. This method of taxation is often used to ensure that wealthier individuals contribute a higher percentage of their income compared to those with lower earnings. By implementing a progressive tax system, where tax rates increase with income, the government can collect more revenue from those who have the financial capacity to pay more. This revenue can then be used to fund public services and welfare programs that support lower-income individuals and vulnerable populations, thereby reducing income inequality and promoting social equity.

The other choices do not capture the primary intent behind direct taxation as effectively. While encouraging savings, increasing employment, and promoting investment are important economic goals, they are typically associated with fiscal policies involving indirect taxes, incentives, or subsidies rather than the primary function of direct taxation. The structure and impact of direct income taxes are specifically designed to address issues of wealth distribution and social justice, making redistribution the core focus.