But, on each of this metrics (minus climate change), the US is better off today than it was 50 years ago. The world conflicts that you cite involve fewer civil

But, on each of this metrics (minus climate change), the US is better off today than it was 50 years ago. The world conflicts that you cite involve fewer civilian casualties, today, than before. There are obviously horrible things going on in the world, but the mindset that people are generally worse off today is largely shaped by the media and false. Don't take my word for it. Go plot violent crime rates worldwide. Or poverty rates, or quality of life, or starvation rates. Or access to medical care (you think it's expensive today, those treatments weren't even available 50 years ago!). None of those things are trending in the wrong direction. Except maybe the US cost of medical care, that stuff is mind boggling.