Both of those comments were a joke, of course. I did read your post, and I agree. I do believe that a big part of the problem is a lack of ability to focus. The internet age has led to shortened attention spans, and there are many kids who browse the web and consume video, but rarely, if ever, read.
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It makes me wonder where we will be in 20 years time as it seems people are getting dumbed down on every front of the social landscape. Many students get a shock when they go to university and are confronted with the amount of reading required.
It is definitely a concern, but I think there is still hope. I know many young people (including my kids) who read regularly, are curious about the world, and are on the path to becoming lifelong learners. Every generation worries about the next, and it is easy to focus on the worst examples in society, but I think there are plenty of kids who make the best use of the tools available today.
During the Renaissance, people thought that printed books would lead to a general decline in oratory skills. One can argue whether or not they were right, but few today believe that widely available access to literature has dumbed down the population. I hope the same is true with the internet. It can be a fabulous learning tool, or a major distraction... it's up to the individual to choose wisely.
I agree with your points and this one in particular.
"It can be a fabulous learning tool, or a major distraction... it's up to the individual to choose wisely."
Time will tell. The Dark Ages weren't all bad :)