However, even with a more benign assumption about growth, Greece's debts would still be very large.

ECONOMIST: Bailing out Greece

It assumes the most benign factor in helping growth, through improved investment and spending confidence, is falling inflation.

BBC: Growing pains and Scotland's future

But that needs decades of high growth, tight budgets and benign interest rates.

ECONOMIST: The streets of Athens are in the grip of an ugly mood

The number is based on the rather benign assumption that in six years the growth of total retiree health care costs will taper off to a mere 5% a year.

FORBES

Their forecast is 3.5% growth in 2013 for the Brazilian economy, given the low base of comparison, more benign international environment and the lagged effects of monetary and fiscal stimuli on investment growth.

FORBES: Worst Might Be Over For Brazil Economy

While most people who carry the gene do not experience any health problems, it can lead to acromegaly - a condition in which a benign enlargement of the pituitary gland causes excess growth of muscles, cartilage and bones.

BBC: Scientists testing for Northern Ireland 'giant gene'

Mr. Bernanke also reiterated the fact that neither he nor the members of the FOMC team are convinced of the efficacy of another round of full-blown QE asset purchases as regards the mandates of economic growth, reduction in unemployment, and maintenance of benign inflation conditions.

FORBES: In The Lead - QE: Quite Elusive

Unfortunately the idea that slower growth and a powerful welfare state are simply the result of a benign European consensus is too rosy.

ECONOMIST: Why is Europe growing so slowly?