NPR: TUJ sociologist explains response of Japanese youth to 3/11

Amid the destruction and devastation left by Japan's earthquake and tsunami, Japanese 20-somethings — a generation that has been criticized as self-absorbed and materialistic by social commentators and older Japanese — have stepped up in volunteering to help. "Instead of having this kind of derisive discourse where young people are negatively judged for choices they make, they may be lauded for volunteer activity they're contributing at this time of need," says Kyle Cleveland, a sociologist and youth culture expert at Temple University, Japan Campus.
April 12, 2011 | National Public Radio's "All Things Considered"