I think this oversimplifies the root cause of the issue and gives the impression that returning to marginal tax rates of 60% or higher will solve the problem.

For example, Canada has marginal tax rates of 50% to 60% (on income greater than $250,000)--and our middle class is also falling. A butcher at a grocery store would be hard pressed to qualify for a mortgage.

As well, tax avoidance and minimalization has become more sophisticated since 1985. Increasing the marginal rates will only drive the wealthy and well off more into these tools.

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This essay does a great job of showing the middle class is shrinking and makes a great prediction of that trend continues.

The trick is: what should we do about it?