As I prepare to board my flight, I find myself in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with Zurich, Switzerland, just over 13 hours away. It’s quite remarkable to consider that in the 19th century, not even the richest individual could have imagined such swift travel. In fact, the entire wealth of the world wouldn’t have sufficed for a 13-hour journey spanning over 7,000 miles, as it simply wasn’t an option back in 1910. Yet here I am, booking such a trip with ease, highlighting that in at least this respect, my life in 2025 is richer than that of anyone a century ago.
I anticipate that the flight crew will be Swiss, as I am flying with a Swiss airline. It’s worth noting that not too long ago, the chance of encountering someone from another country was slim for most people. While many still don’t venture far from their birthplace, globalization has enabled a steady influx of cultures into our lives. This exchange enriches our understanding of the world around us.
Before I board, I’ll take a pill designed to prevent my ears from clogging during the flight—an odd requirement, I know, and one that may ultimately lead to a future surgery. These pills are a product of modern medicine, easily obtained through a doctor’s visit and an affordable prescription. Once aboard, I’ll don noise-canceling headphones that will allow me to unwind and perhaps catch a few Z’s during the flight. Just imagine trying to explain this level of comfort to the countless individuals who, only a century ago, braved months-long ship voyages across the Atlantic, with death often looming as a possibility.
While in the air, I’ll continue drafting this piece on a laptop—an invention that was inconceivable just fifty years ago. Today, millions possess these devices, capable of accessing vast troves of information, engaging in games, and streaming entertainment. With internet connectivity, we can tap into more knowledge than what resided in the Library of Alexandria or any contemporary library, a staggering reality.
If boredom strikes mid-flight, I’ll likely immerse myself in one of the two books I’ve brought along. It’s humorous to reflect that someone like Aristotle could hardly envision such a luxury. The existence of mass-produced printers and a transportation system that facilitates the global distribution of books with standardized typography is truly astounding.
Upon landing, I’ll instantly text my girlfriend to inform her of my safe arrival—a feat that was unimaginable just a few decades ago. We’ve moved beyond the days of waiting weeks for letters or incurring hefty charges for international calls. The very cellphone I use in Argentina allows me to stay connected with anyone, even from a different continent.
All of these conveniences stem from the freedom that enables human creativity to flourish. Airplanes, medications, headphones, laptops, books, and cellphones are all products of a system that encourages innovation. The ability to trade and profit not only enhances individual lives but also contributes to the well-being of others. This principle applies universally, explaining the existence of airlines and countless other businesses. Individuals, often unknown to us, are working diligently to earn a living while simultaneously introducing new inventions that benefit society in myriad ways.
The advantages of free-market capitalism and the international division of labor, which we often take for granted, are nothing short of extraordinary. The extent of these benefits is likely beyond complete comprehension. We tend to overlook the past, but as we’ve embraced greater freedom, life has consistently improved, and it continues to do so. So, next time you board a plane, take a moment to appreciate the marvels of our world, which allow ordinary individuals like us to experience its wonders.
Marcos Falcone is the Project Manager of Fundación Libertad and a regular contributor to Forbes Argentina. His writing has also appeared in The Washington Post, National Review, and Reason, among others. He is based in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
