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 * The essay below was written by Chhun Hay Kim**


 * Modern lifestyles are different from the way people lived in the past. Some people think the changes have been positive, while others believe that they might have been negative. **


 * Discuss both points of view and give your own opinions. **

There may have been polarised views to the effects of the transitions of lifestyles that most people adopt in the 21st century compared to those of their predecessors. In this essay, a discussion will be made regarding to the positives and negatives of the changes, along with my own opinions.

It is perhaps very sensible to claim that in this era, most of the general public have been benefitting from the growth of the world economy to a certain extent. Their benefits might have been greater than their ancestors, or at least some of them. They live based on more spending powers that could be attributed to some forms of debits that they incur at some points. It is generally known that the more accessible the goods or choices consumers have, they are somehow happier than before. Moreover, this era could have the most peaceful one yet as there are no World Wars. People tend to live with the mindsets that their countries could be peaceful for a very long period of time and may adjust their living expectations with that. These mindsets could have been the contrast to the past where most of the ancients had been dragged into wars.

It is, however, possible to state that with more choices and riches in the modern days, comes lowered level of happiness. It appears that the equation does work out that way Even though technological advancements may have made the world a better place to a certain extent, the wants of the majority could be endless and may be compared to an abyss. For example, it is interesting to note that according to a recent news article by Yahoo!, it was mentioned that ‘the Richest in China are the unhappiest’. It seems to correspond to the well-known Easterlin paradox. With more income and wealth, it may not mean that theholdersare more blessed or ‘happier’ but it could be the stark contrast. They are more likely exposed to higher level of stress at work and instense competitions.

In conclusion, I believe there may be the case that modern lifestyles, though distinct from the past, could have been more positive than negative. It is, however, ideal to step back one day and spend time away from this hectic lifestyle of endless wants for superficial satisfaction. Overall, it depends on the decisions we make.

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