A good example was the topic of DDT as it related to “better living through chemistry.” DDT was really vilified in its day, to the point where it was banned worldwide. Granted, DDT is not vanilla pudding, but it was an effective treatment against mosquitos who spread malaria. I read somewhere the other day that since DDT was banned, malaria (and other mosquito-spread diseases) have increased into the millions from almost nothing when the pesticide was in use.

Basically, I choose to remember that today we have the most advanced medicine, the highest lifespan and best standard of living of any culture at any point in history. We need to do a better job of taking care of the rest of the world, and more equitable distribution of wealth, but things are generally pretty good. I’m just not going to worry about terrorists, rBGH milk, etc. Life’s too short (but longer than it’s ever been).