Quote Originally Posted by The_Emperor
Well for me (In a Huge City Level) I always aim to have a very slight pop growth at high taxes (1% or 0.5%) to help recoup losses and a 0% growth at very high taxes.

If I find I am running out of people, I'll lower the taxes for a few turns to increase the growth rate. Nice and simple, providing I can keep order at the higher tax levels.
This is how I do it too, at least as a Roman (I haven't played anyone else yet). After building all possible happiness, order and sanitation buildings, the key is the keeping order with high taxes. This will mean a large garrison and a competent city manager. Games and races can provide cover when you need to find a good governor although income will take a hit. I mostly build the temples that deliver the most order because order can become very difficult to maintain and every 5% helps.

I have never massacred my own people by design. This may work but it is not necessary. I will concede though that an ironfisted approach could be fun.