Nearly 2,000 Vermonters Responded... 

Dear Fellow Vermonter,

Recently, we sent out a Bernie Buzz asking Vermonters a simple question. Do you think life is better today than it was 50 years ago?

Frankly we expected, at most, a few dozen responses. We then planned to select a cross-section of those responses, publish them, and continue the discussion.

Well, our estimates were way off. Incredibly, instead of a few dozen responses, we received nearly 2,000 written comments from all over the state – almost all of them very thoughtful. It is clear that this issue is very much on the minds of Vermonters. As a nation are we going forwards or backwards? What are the pluses and minuses of modern society? Is life better today than it was 50 years ago? It is clear that these are questions that Vermonters are thinking about.

I am including below a sampling of some of the responses we received. If you are interested in seeing the full list, please click HERE.

I hope you’ll read them and get a sense as to what your neighbors are thinking. This is an important discussion that I look forward to continuing.

Sincerely,

See What They Had To Say

Nearly 2,000 Vermonters wrote in from every corner of the state to answer this question: Do You Think Life Is Better Today Than It Was 50 Years Ago? You can read below a sampling of Vermont responses to this question and see the full list HERE. Submissions have been lightly edited for clarity and length.

Lincoln, VT

“Technology and science have made life better today than it was 50 years ago — no question. Socially and psychologically, we have not progressed as one would have hoped. People are no happier and are not feeling more secure, safer, and respected. Many public institutions (government, education, healthcare, banking, big business to name a few) are broken and not serving the interests of the people. Inequality, uneven opportunity and wealth, ineffective leadership and government, and self-interests are obstacles holding us back ...maybe by 50 years.”                                                            

Ripton, VT

“Life is better now than it was 50 years ago. People live longer, and are healthier. Automobiles and airplanes are safer. Voting rights have expanded. LGBTQ people have the right to marry. More women are elected to office. There are certain areas that have gone in the opposite direction. The cultural silos of media have led to the growth of voter ignorance, which in turn has America flirting with autocracy. The ravages of climate change have begun to appear regularly. Although there have been advances in fighting racism, progress has been frustratingly slow. But on balance life is better in the US now than it was.”

Williston, VT

“As a millennial, I think life was better for people 50 years ago. With the high level of corporate greed, stagnant wages, and rising inflation, people are working a lot harder and still living paycheck to paycheck. The "American Dream" is lost for an increasing amount of people, and things like buying a home is out of the question for most younger people like myself. In my parents era, only one person in each household needed to work and it was easier to go to college and buy a home. Many millennials are forced to live with their parents as adults because of this reason. When my parents went to college in the 1990s at a state college, they paid $50/credit compared to the $550/credit I paid to go to the same school only 23 years later. Structural racism and inequality plagues our culture and forces so many people into poverty as the 1% take everything that's left. As a registered nurse, I can say that our healthcare system is broken and patients as well as frontline workers are paying the price. For the amount of money we spend on healthcare, we shouldn't have so many uninsured people and one of the lowest life expectancy rates in the developed world. We need things to change in favor of the people, and not the corporations!”

Colchester, VT

“Definitely better IN MOST WAYS but NOT ALL. Without writing an essay I would say the biggest backslide is in how divisive and polarized we have become as a society. Don't get me wrong, there always were differences of opinion and there were always the extremes but they were not as amplified. The internet and social media have allowed us to express our views to an unparalleled degree and, unfortunately, created media silos that only reinforce limited views. Again, unfortunately, Washington has reflected this dynamic and not provided the leadership by example that we need (I feel that you have been a shining example of what we actually need). The "one way or the highway" attitude by many and the subsequent threat to our democracy is most alarming. Second on my list of not as good is the affect that the economy has had on the ability of normal people (what most call the middle class) to afford a decent life style without both partners having to work many hours. This is distressing at best, downright depressing at worst. One of the leading culprits (although there are many) is the cost of healthcare. It has become way out of proportion to many other things and far to large a percentage of a household income. Thanks for asking!”

Jericho, VT

“No. We are fortunate to have many inventions that make our life easier (in some ways). However, the average person in Vermont is not better off financially. Many Vermonters are having to work 2nd jobs in order to make ends meet. House prices are out of reach for the average person and rent costs have skyrocketed. It seems that the cost of food and essentials are a larger percentage of our income than 50 years ago. Is the American Dream out of reach? Also, sadly, many Americans do not have a Faith to guide them. I believe that has led some people to seek fulfillment and happiness in ways that ultimately bring them anxiety, hopelessness, and depression.”

Stowe, VT

“A lot of things have gotten better, but we are destroying our planet with fossil fuels and conspicuous consumption. We have become more divided; much I think due to social media and partisan news outlets. Civility is lacking. Citizen United led to undue influence of money over politics. And finally, the economic inequality has gotten out of hand. The middle- & working-class don't believe in a bright future for themselves or their children. Reversing Citizens United would be a good start.”

Montpelier, VT

“Life is dramatically better today than 50 years ago. While we still have a long way to go as a nation, the people, as a whole, are more progressive in their viewpoints. We are beginning to learn more of a realistic view of our history - in the ways government and its citizens have treated one another both historically and in the present day. Racial equality has moved slowly but inexorably closer. Awareness and societal acceptance of our LGBTQ population has grown exponentially. Women have become much more of a political and economic force. Until the Supreme Court Dobbs decision, women had greater control over their futures. Now, state by state, voters are showing that this loss will not stand. Socially, we have progressed. Economically, since the Reagan days, through changes in tax policy and the shift of economic benefit from the lower and middle class to the upper class has done incredible damage to the fabric of the United States. On a personal economic level, I have been fortunate to be one of the few to see improvement in economic status in that time. So many others have been left behind to the benefit of the ruling class and their massive accumulation of ridiculous levels of wealth.”

Williamstown, VT

“I believe that in some ways life is better and in some ways it's worse. I could honestly write an entire essay on my thoughts, but I'll keep this concise. Modern conveniences make life easier, but the single thing (in my opinion) that has made life worse is that wages have not increased to match inflation. People can't afford anything on a single income anymore, and sometimes struggle with two or more incomes. Because of this, parents aren't raising their children. They're barely surviving and hoping that the schools and caregivers do an adequate job. With little to no consequences for misbehavior and nobody consistently providing good examples of how to be good humans, the children became collateral damage. This has contributed to increased crime and drug use over the years, which are both out of control. And things are just going to keep getting worse because nothing is changing for the better - things keep snowballing.”

Northfield, VT

“I believe that life is better now than 50 years ago. Medical advances and the positive potential of technology are some reasons for my position. However, people have increased potential exposure to information that is focused on negative, threatening events than years ago. Each of us needs to seek out the positive in order to keep a balanced view. Thank you for asking!!”

Jericho, VT

“Life is certainly better today. Medicine has advanced to provide better care. Environmental protections are providing cleaner air, water, and soil for people and wildlife. There are plenty of jobs; employers tell me they are having a difficult time finding enough workers. The state of political affairs isn't perfect. People like Vladimir Poutin, and those that admire him, are feeling empowered to strive for personal gains at the expense of others. 50 years ago, the Vietnam war was ending (why would anyone want to go back to that?). And bipartisan government passed major legistlation protecting the environment and basic human rights. Societies, like most things, go through cycles of good and less-good periods. It is impossible for things to be favorable to all people at the same time, largely do to the diversity of human attitudes and inevitable economic cycles.”

Montpelier, VT

“I think backwards. Political process, effectiveness, and civility has significantly declined, especially in Washington. Income inequality has grown significantly. Homelessness has grown. Gun violence has increased. Affordable housing is in short supply. The U.S. has failed to lead the way in Israel-Palestine. The result is not only endless tragedy there, but also now a threat to Biden 's re-election. The wealthiest continue to not pay their fair share. Capital gains remains under-taxed. Tax loop-holes are made for the wealthiest. Climate change is not being met with the pro-activism that is really needed. Montpelier is in decline. Roads are terrible. Property taxes are too high. Flood vulnerable. The City looks disheveled. Stonecutters Way is an example. It has garbage, is unmowed most of the time, broken railing along the walkway. The State is not doing enough to support a State Capital city that we can be proud of.”

White River Junction, VT

“A little of both, really. We have become more tolerant and welcoming while portions of the populace push back and try to ramp up anti-lgbtq, antisemitic, and anti-Muslim, rhetoric. Basically any non-white, Christian, and cis rhetoric. Entire states have pushed agendas trying to further marginalize fellow human beings for how they were born or what they believe. Things are kinda crumbling around us, and most of those in power are all to happy to watch things fall apart. But there are glimmers of hope, especially in younger folks. They're getting active far earlier than people in my generation did, and are very willing to fight for their rights and their neighbors. Mutual aid is growing and communities are trying to become more resilient. I hope it continues!”

Springfield, VT

“It was definitely better 50 years ago. The computer age has its benefits, but constant access to the internet, cell phone, and computers, are affecting the way we live. Life is easier, but not necessarily, better. 50 years ago the old main streets in town had booming "mom and pop businesses. We didn't automatically turn to Amazon or big box stores. Life was definitely easier and simple. I miss it. I'm 62 years old and I grew up in Claremont NH but spent a great deal of time in Springfield VT. The factories and mills kept everyone employed. We didn't depend on credit to survive.”

Waterbury, VT

“Life is much better today than 50 years ago! Yes - there is more crime which is greatly impacted by the drug epidemic. Mental illness seems at an all time high too. However, there was a great deal of poverty 50 years ago (and more). I grew up in a small town in Vermont and we didn't have an indoor bathroom and used a hand pump in the kitchen to bring water into the house until I was about 12 years old (1962). My father worked in the mines and quarries making very little money. A big day out for us was a ride where my Dad would stop to buy a loaf of bread, peanut butter and fig cookies to have a little picnic. Now that was more than 50 years ago. 50 years ago, times were still tough. Interest rates were very high - much higher than the 5-6% today and wages were much lower. With a college education, I started a job at $3.25 per hour supporting two children as a single mom in 1979. Women at that time couldn't even see the glass ceiling much less break it. People are better educated today and can earn much higher wages. Opportunities abound if the person wants to take advantage of them and work hard to attain their goals. Medical breakthroughs are extending lives and improving the quality of those lives. I think reading social media and the news every day makes people think we have gone backwards. When we only had Walter Cronkite to tell us the world news once a day, we weren't bombarded all day with negativity. Listening to or reading all of the terrible things happening in the world is enough to wear anyone down. But were those same types of atrocities happening 50 years ago and we just didn't know??”

Essex Junction, VT

“Backwards! The "good" things that have been accomplished in the last 50 years have not been equally shared across the population and all the people who helped make them happen. As a country we can no longer seem to accomplish anything significant (e.g. we got to the moon 50 years ago - I doubt we could agree on where the moon is today). Some specific general issues...Income inequality has gotten significantly worse (just look at CEO to worker pay ratios over that time frame. Effects of globalization on shifting jobs and manufacturing capabilities overseas - the US doesn't "make stuff" like we did 50 years ago. The increasing no compromise "us vs them" mentality in EVERY issue both inside and outside government and lack of civil discourse that has accompanied that (on both left and right). The lack of any real/measurable progress on any major issue (social security funding, US deficit, immigration, infrastructure repairs, climate change, poverty levels, etc).”

Arlington, VT

“It was defiantly better 50 years ago. A used car did not cost more than your house, now if you are on social security if you get a small cost of living increase what good does it do, food utilities and heating oil companies are allowed rise their prices much more. The poverty level for any help does not increase. At least 50 years ago you got more for your dollar. I think there is a lot of corruption in politics starting with town, state and federal. I feel today people in office like to line their pockets with kickbacks payoffs instead of taking care of the people who put them there. There is no way on social security you can keep up with the rising costs of eating, heating your home or keeping the lights on. These companies are allowed to tack on X amount of dollars for assistance or recovery which is not right when you can barely pay your own. I cannot help but wonder if there is such thing as a honest politician who will stand up for the common man and people on social security, they should not be allowed to tack on all their extra fees.”

Randolph Center, VT

“Conveniences make life easier. Medical knowledge and treatment for those who can afford it is better. Information access is so much better. However, social decay is everywhere with loss of family values, increased crime, drugs, intolerance for different religions, ideas and lifestyles, loss of compromise in government, loss of a sense of national unity, confusion over right and wrong, truth and lies. The disparity between rich and poor seems greater and achieving the American dream harder. I grew up thinking America was striving to be a good and just society and a moral example for other nations. I'm not so sure anymore.”

Middlebury, VT

“Backwards: 1. Technology could allow us extra time to connect with one another with face to face meaningful interactions, but it has gone the opposite direction. 2. Families are struggling to make ends meet often working multiple jobs, so there goes the time for human interaction once again. The fast pace of technology allowing immediate gratification has not allowed our children to learn patience, perseverance and delayed gratification. Because of less family time (dinner around the table), lack of neighborhood interactions and waning membership in community organizations, emotional intelligence and adept interpersonal skills and relationships are not being developed. 5. Put the lack of emotional intelligence, family and community support with easy access to guns so when in fearful situations in which there are not the skills to cope, you have a disaster on your hands. Have we not seen this over and over again? 6. Our government simply does not fund social services adequately, childcare, mental health services, health care, housing, etc. to support the very fabric of our country. We are our brother's keepers whether we like it or not. And, the fabric is tragically unraveling for a huge segment of our population.”

Concord, VT

“My life is better but I fear that the opposite is true for the majority of our country. Although we certainly have much better technology, better laws trying to grant equality to all, and at least some awareness of our responsibility to the future generations BUT we are also much more divided. More people struggle with illness, drug addiction, violence, poverty and fear. We seem to be increasingly losing out humanity and becoming isolated in our prejudices. There is much more violence and crime with criminals being sent back into society with no support, no skills and no desire to change. Our health care system is ridiculously inadequate. Our schools are understaffed and over priced. Our government is floundering. I truly fear for the future of our country and specifically for democracy.”

Lyndonville, VT

“In some ways a bit better. (The quality of medications to keep us healthier and ease of communication) but those same conveniences like the internet and cell phones have made us largely stop communicating, or allows people to be less caring and even mean since they can communicate from afar. Families are more broken by the need for both adults to work full time to even attempt to make a living. Housing has become impossibly expensive and the parents are not around as much to guide their children. It all combines to make a bad situation. Having folks in Washington more concerned with personal vendettas rather than their constituents is maddening.”

Jericho, VT

“Life is better in many ways: medical advances, technology, acceptance of racial/ethnic diversity, for example. We've probably gone backwards in personal responsibility (frivolous lawsuits requiring printing on food wrappers "do not eat" for instance), polarization (the inability to see validity in any opinion but your own), income inequality, acceptance of conspiracy theories (appears to have grown), the ability of Congress to work together to bridge gaps between the parties.”

Burlington, VT

“We are better off in many ways, but we have gone backward in our civil discourse with one another. We rush to correct one another and say mean things and are less forgiving. Although social media is so prevalent, individuals are often isolated now. There is less of a sense of community.”