Many aspects are much better every generation. The constant bombardment of advertising that spur unrealistic expectations and purchasing of absolute trash is a huge burden on those who fall for the scheme. This covetousness that is psychologically embedded into the brain by the parasites is the pathogen that destroys. It's a very difficult trap to avoid, and even if you can personally avoid it, others around you may suck you into the game in an effort to protect them. Manipulation of real estate prices is a combination of greed and the government's greed for tax revenue (another avenue for theft).