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Underrated Reasons to Be Thankful (dynomight.net)

971 points by dynm · 1760 days ago · 336 comments on HN

Article summary

The article presents a list of underrated reasons to be thankful, including the fact that the atmosphere is not prone to nuclear fission, the Earth has not been hit by a massive solar flare, and human social behavior has evolved to prioritize fairness and cooperation. These factors, among others, have contributed to the existence and relative stability of human society. The article also touches on the importance of gratitude and the role of luck in human history. The list is diverse and includes scientific, historical, and philosophical perspectives.

Main themes

  • Industrial Revolution
  • Human Society
  • Gratitude
  • Economic History
  • Science and Technology
  • Philosophy and Ethics

What commenters say

  • The industrial revolution may have been facilitated by a combination of factors, including the availability of resources, corporate incentives, and the collapse of trade outposts.
  • The transition from hunter-gatherer bands to agriculture may have initially made life worse, but ultimately led to the industrial revolution and modern society.
  • People may have been driven to work in factories due to economic necessity and the desire for opportunity, rather than being forced or coerced.
  • The idea that people were 'pushed' into factories is a matter of interpretation, and some argue that economic circumstances created a situation where factory work was the only viable option.
  • The conditions in factories were often harsh, but may have been preferable to the difficulties and dangers of agricultural work.
  • The concept of gratitude and appreciation for the present state of human society is complex and multifaceted, and may involve acknowledging both the positive and negative aspects of history and circumstance.