There are so many spheres that prove that our life Now is better than 100 years ago: how knowledge and information is spread, how fast you can travel, I bet you know at least several dozens of people around the world. Food, clothes, entertainment -all of these things have changed and for the best. Bill is right, it's fair to share the perks of nowadays life with those who live like hundreds year ago. It's like going back in time when travelling to the poor regions. We can and should welcome people from underdeveloped countries to the World of Today.

> You have swallowed the American dream / fairly tail! Inequality growing.

Growing inequality does not mean quality of life is decreasing (the point you are disputing).

> More and more people (in the UK) relying on food banks.

Has general standard of living decreased? By most any measure it has not. People have vastly more resources than their ancestors did, but if you make poor choices yes you may have a visit to a food bank in your future. And there is a food bank to visit.

> Falling real wages, with increased rents.

This part I can agree with in many cases. But, let's not forget the vast improvement in affordable entertainment options available now compared to the past.

You would have us believe everything is worse. This is not true.