Clearly, a two-rate system of 10% and 25% would be a radical departure from the seven-tier system we find ourselves stuck in today, and a major step towards a system where every American can quickly estimate their federal tax liability.

FORBES: Tax Aspects Of Paul Ryan's FY 2014 Republican Budget Proposal

Despite the constant threat of Greece's departure from the euro and a youth unemployment rate above 50 percent, Tsakonas, too, is hopeful.

WSJ: Community by Design | Architecture

The Italian bond rate reached a record of 7.48% last Wednesday, draining investor confidence and hastening Mr Berlusconi's departure.

BBC: Italy crisis: Debt cost puts pressure on Mario Monti