Specialization is such that if someone is smart and motivated they can achieve greatness in their career and do well financially. On the other hand, education is much more expensive now. 100 years ago one could finish a university degree while working or with some support from family. Now one must go into debt to get a degree. A university degree usually means starting life with a large debt.
Personal freedoms are better for certain groups. 100 years ago it was difficult to be a member of a minority group. Blacks, Asians, Hispanics and anyone who was not white was discriminated against. Now there are laws to protect people from discrimination and conditions are much better for minorities.