The first thing that comes to mind is dependence on other people. Modern life has made it possible for the average person after a certain age to live without meaningful interaction with others. In the same vein one’s ability to choose one’s company has been greatly increased, which leads to superficial relationships and the isolation of those that no one chooses to be with.

> This paints a powerful case for humanity also being psychologically and emotionally better off, on average, than at any older time in history

This is not at all obvious for the reasons listed above, after a certain point material abundance does not cause psychological well-being. I’d argue that point was well within the reach of most of our ancestors, since we have had happy ancestors of modest socioeconomic status.

> Whatever you might think of Steven Pinker, the guy's fundamental argument is broadly true

The only broadly true statement that can be made about this topic is that modern life is generally incomparable how it was historically.

I find that the sentiment underlying these arguments is usually masturbatory in nature.