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Click to read the article below and then answer the questions:
Why there are reasons to be cheerful in turbulent times
Discussion Questions
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What major global challenges are mentioned at the beginning of the article?
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What is “negativity bias,” and how does it influence our perception of current events?
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What economic progress does the article highlight when discussing global poverty over the past 50 years?
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What is the article’s optimistic view on economic solutions to challenges such as inequality and populism?
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How does the article view the state of democracy in 2024, despite the global challenges?
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After reading the article, what do you think are the most important reasons to remain optimistic about the future despite the global challenges we face today, and how can economic policies or innovations play a role in addressing these challenges?
Extended learning
Watch the video: Ten Global Trends Every Smart Person Should Know (4:25) and answer the questions below:
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How has global poverty changed over the past 25 years? Why do you think most people believe world poverty is increasing?
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What is the relationship between rising prosperity and environmental improvements, according to the video?
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How has the risk of dying in natural disasters changed over the past 90 years, and what role does technology play in this trend?
Conclusion
Considering the progress highlighted in both the video and the Financial Times article, how can the global trends of innovation, economic growth, and technological advancement help shape a better future and address ongoing challenges such as poverty, climate change, and inequality?
Joel Miller and James Redelsheimer, Foundation for Economic Education.
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