You’d be forgiven for thinking that life today isn’t as good as it used to be. After all, the news is so often filled with doom and gloom. And yet, if we look at the data, it shows the world is becoming a much better place. Economic historian Julius Probst walks us through seven charts that show there’s a lot to be happy about.

Fast-food chains are well known for using cute toy animals to promote burgers and nuggets for children. But as Kate Stewart and Matthew Cole explain, these toys aren’t designed to create an association with the mass-produced meat in the box. And as McDonalds introduces a plant-based Happy Meal, moves to create vegan-friendly options could draw children’s attention to the reality of dead animals in other options.

With Apple’s share price down by nearly 40% in less than six months, the most obvious thing the company seems to be lacking is the late Steve Jobs. Still probably the most famous CEO, it’s tempting to believe that Apple’s first profit warning since 2002 would never have happened on his watch. Arturo Bris insists otherwise. He argues that business leaders affect company performance much less than is generally believed, and offers a different explanation for Apple’s funk.

A US poker player recently bet US$100k that he could survive 30 days in total isolation. He was kept in a completely dark room without any social interaction for 20 days before he negotiated his release. While he claims the experience was positively life-changing, it isn’t the case for everyone. As Sarita Robinson explains, isolation can have some very detrimental physical and psychological consequences.

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