Is this a convincing argument? Despite the doubters, rising levels of health, literacy and renewable energy suggest that things have never been better.
Now is the best EVER time to be alive
Reasons to be cheerful: All four advances above are cause for optimism. The pace of medical breakthroughs and wider access to healthcare mean many people who would have died even 10 years ago are now enjoying healthy lives. Glossary
Paris climate agreement - An international treaty on climate change that was signed in 2016. The treaty covers climate change mitigation, adaptation, and finance.
Optimism - Having a hopeful and positive outlook.
Renewable - Energy sources, such as wind and solar power.
Obese - For adults, obesity is defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more. A BMI of 25 or more is classed as overweight.
Statistician - An expert in the preparation and analysis of statistics.
Pessimistic - Tending to believe that the worst will happen.