if i could wave a magic wand, taxes would be strictly progressive. I understand the difference between income and capital gains, but i find Buffet's comments about 'lower rate than my secretary' frustrating.

I would support Paul Ryan's original promise that 'you can file your taxes on a postcard'. With the caveat, every other person and corporation also files their taxes on a postcard.

This, of course, strips a fantastic amount of subtlety and control. Subsidize what you want and tax what you don't is standard tax policy.

On the other hand, i prefer scheme to c++. so simple as to be completely transparent is better than fabulous complexity. But, it turns out that's not a particularly popular world view.