Is the world better today or 50 years ago?

I’m sure most of you are well under 50 (like I am), but you can still have opinions on the subject…

I have to write an argumentative essay on whether the world is better today or 50 years ago. Its a very broad question. I can go either way with it and talk about whatever aspects I want. I have yet to decide which angle to take. I’m looking for different perspectives. My first instinct was “definitely today”. Technology is much more prominent, you can virtually learn ANYTHING in a matter of minutes, better medical advances, etc. However, I want to consider everything.

What about family life? 50 years ago, families ate dinner together, exercised, TALKED. Children didn’t rot in front of the tv. They actually got outside and played. Kids actually respected their parents…Sure SOME families are still like that, but not very many.

What about violence? Is the world more dangerous today, or does it just seem that way because everything is televised/online? Education? How has it changed? Technology is a blessing in classrooms, yet it opens more doors for dishonesty/cheating…

Any thoughts? There are a million other things. Just want some other opinions for both my essay and just personal gain. I’m think most younger people would say today is better because of video games, tv, internet, etc. I’m curious as to what people think and how age has a factor. I look forward to your responses. (I won’t be quoting you or anything like that…just fueling my thoughts)

Thank you! :]