Rutger Bregman begins the book by noting how contemporary life is radically different from the way that nearly all human beings lived for most of history. Only a small fraction of people now live in extreme poverty, as was the norm for most of humanity as recently as 200 years ago. Average incomes were stagnant for centuries, but have increased tremendously since the late 19th century. Life expectancy in the poorest countries today exceeds that in the richest countries in 1800. When most people lived in misery, as was the case until relatively recently, they developed notions of a “utopia,” an imaginary world where everyone had everything they could need or want. The specific features of a utopia tended to reflect the deprivation of the people who imagined it and depict a polarized vision, such as endless food and leisure time for those who starved as they labored. Life in the 21st century resembles many of these utopian visions because of its enormous wealth, long lifespans, scientific advancements, and infinite variety of entertainment. Vaccination has eradicated diseases that once wiped out millions. Education levels have risen significantly, and violence—both criminal violence and war-related deaths and injuries—has decreased.

The one downside of so many people enjoying such good conditions is that people now have become complacent and lack a belief in progress.