A Better Life? In 1956 the typical American had to work 16 weeks for each 100 square feet of home purchased; now it takes 14 weeks, and the houses are much nicer. Most families of that period had 1 car and strived to own 2; today 1/3 of U.S. families own 3 or more cars. The workforce has never been so highly educated. Americans are living longer, healthier lives. Crime is down. The environment is cleaner. In spite of this, why aren’t a higher percentage of Americans happier? Gregg Esterbrook, author of The Progress Paradox, says, “wealth can’t overcome a sense that life lacks
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