The real value of the minimum wage is still below the level of the Kennedy years. Income distribution is as unequal as in the 1920s. Fourth is stress. It now takes two incomes to achieve a living standard that is even lower middle class. Yet no advanced nation has a less developed system of childcare, and the work-family tension has become unbearable for the average family.
Elites solve the problem with nannies.
Others struggle with inadequate daycare centres, staffed by undertrained workers. The poor settle for 'family daycare' - taking in each other's children. A sick child means a career crisis. So yes, many indicators suggest we are enjoying unusually good times. It is wonderful that rates of crime, teen pregnancy, unemployment and air pollution are all down.