Think about it. When you’re asked to consider whether today, or some undefined period yesteryear, is a preferable time in which to live, what would you say? Most people tend to respond with the undefined period yesteryear. Irrespective of whether it was, the past tends to feel easier; less stressful; simpler. Rose-tinted glasses, false memories and the daily stresses and strains of modern living tends to make people look at the past with fondness and nostalgia. Quantitatively, it’s often not even the case: life has become easier for Americans. It’s generally less laborious (we now have dishwashers and washing machines), ... read more

Women in the 21st century could be forgiven for sometimes thinking they’ve been given a pretty rough deal. Balancing work pressures and family pressures is hard enough for anyone, but the ongoing debate about whether or not women can – or should – be expected to succeed at both reminds women that there are still some choices to be made, that – biologically, of course – men don’t have to make. In this week’s Economist/YouGov poll, 73% nationally think it’s possible for women in America to have a full-time job and do a good job of raising a family, rising ... read more