Depending on where one live in the world, there are social improvements. Certainly
western European is living better than they ever have. The social contract and social safety
net there is strong. Asian countries seem to be improving as well. 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.