The lack of empathy in these times is more related to the isolation of the new generations locked in their rooms and their only contact with the outside world are mobile phones and traditional social networks.
Another factor in the lack of empathy lies in the very self-esteem that today's generation has about itself. If you don't love yourself, how can we pretend to love others, to put ourselves in their shoes as they say in Latin America.
A few years ago, I had a nice conversation with a Nun who pretended to ‘change the world’ by neglecting herself. At that time I said to her: “how can a mother pretend to take care of her children, sometimes even not eating, to the detriment of herself?” If you don't love yourself, don't take care of yourself, you will fall ill, and you will no longer be able to take care of your own.
Before reaching out to others, we must fill our own hearts. It is not selfish; it is a solid foundation from which we can offer sincere and generous help.
As said, it is a cycle. They can also be locked there due to a lack of social engagement. The esteem isn't low in behavior, it is unqualified for the most part - it is an act. It is an overcompensation for inexperience.
Religious people are often misguided in the sense that their sacrifice is meaningful.