<p>I actually think it is gearing up, though perhaps in different forms than our mass protests. There is a school of thought that says the anti-Vietnam protests swelled because of the direct threat of the draft. No draft, no mass demonstrations of college students. The issue I believe could really bring students out into the streets is that of financial aid because, like the draft, it has a direct and immediate impact on them. And, though that might be seen as selfish, it ties into the issue of inequality in educational opportunity that is the central social justice issue for this generation, just as civil rights was for a previous generation.</p>
<p>My son does go to a college where there is a fair amount of political activism, but splintered around different issues. The internet allows a lot of behind the scenes organizing as well. Beyond that, I believe this generation is heavily invested in community service. So, I think it's unfair to say they are more self-centered than we were. Look at the percentages applying to Teach for America, for example. </p>
<p>I do think they are more cynical about the political process. Well, just look at the political process...</p>