Global Progress Report: The Rational Optimist

Evidence of Humanity's Remarkable Achievements Over the Past Two Centuries

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Global Extreme Poverty

-88%

In 1820, 90% of humanity lived in extreme poverty.
Today, less than 10% do.

Despite population growth, the absolute number of people living in extreme poverty has fallen by more than half since 1990.

Child Mortality

-90%

In 1800, 43% of children died before age 5.
Today, that number is below 4%.

Advancements in medicine, sanitation, and nutrition have saved billions of young lives.

Global Literacy

+75%

In 1820, only 12% of the world could read and write.
Today, 87% of the global population is literate.

Education has become a fundamental human right, unlocking potential worldwide.

Life Expectancy

+41 yrs

Global life expectancy has doubled since 1900.
From a global average of 32 to over 73 years today.

We are living longer, healthier lives than any generation before us.

World Hunger

-42%

Undernourishment in developing regions has fallen by 42% since 1990.

While work remains, improved agriculture and supply chains have drastically reduced famine.

Global GDP

+100x

The world economy has grown exponentially over the last century.

This economic engine powers the innovations that cure disease and reduce poverty.

The World Has Never Been Better.

The data is clear. Optimism is rational.
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