The Rational Optimist (P.S.)

by Matt Ridley

It will not be easy, but it is perfectly possible, indeed probable, that in the year 2110, a century after this book is published, humanity will be much, much better off than it is today, and so will the ecology of the planet it inhabits. This book dares the human race to embrace change, to be rationally optimistic and thereby to strive for the betterment of humankind and the world it inhabits.

Today, of Americans officially designated as ‘poor’, 99 per cent have electricity, running water, flush toilets, and a refrigerator; 95 per cent have a television, 88 per cent a telephone, 71 per cent a car and 70 per cent air conditioning.

Swedish birds’ eggs have 75 per cent fewer pollutants in them than in the 1960s.

Today, a car emits less pollution traveling at full speed than a parked car did in 1970 from leaks.