I saw this gentlemen's TED Talk some time ago, it is really great work ... the data visualization is truly amazing, however, context is required .. there are very good reasons for such change, which are absent from visualization, but I would never wish to suggest the change is not occurring.

It is of course true that the benefits of connectivity are great. The more we know about the plights and triumphs of others, the less comfortable we are being led through the same repetitive patterned life, without questioning anything. Required change becomes obvious and finding others who believe the same is a lot easier now than it once was .. coupled together this causes an acceleration in the 'demand' for that change. The change itself is another matter .. well, there is that old saying, 'be the change' .. live your life as you think we should, and hopefully enough people do the same .. wallah! Wishful thinking imho.

On the other hand, on the darker side - divide and conquer goes the old saying - this increased connectivity allows us to connect with like-minded folk, but in very small niches. For example, this battle the various anarchist camps; this serves the masters very well ... 'increase the divisions and keep'em conquered!' .. it prevents any real momentum from any identifiable perspective .. that's why the Occupy Wall St. "movement" appeared so ineffective .. entirely directionless.

Regarding increased compassion .. I have to say no, it did not come about independently - it is not a flower growing in a pot. What has happened in fact is we have suffered many shocks throughout history ... we have been witness to many horrific crimes, that have forced this growth.

But anyway, if one believes, like Mr. Rosling suggests, that we are on a trajectory that shows continued improvement on all fronts .. economic equality, individual freedom, improved health .. if one believes this is sustainable, to infinitude, then all is well .. just sit back and enjoy the ride. I believe however, that there are clear signs that this love-in will not continue .. the election of Mr. Trump is one such sign. :-)