The connectivity of world has always improved with the passage of time; changing the way people view their world. It is but a natural outcome that people start asking questions concerning their beliefs and know hows. The outcome is that delusions are broken and people accepting new ideas. The elder generation is largely unable to cope up with these changes and hence, unable to modify their behaviors relative to the young ones.
Regarding materialism, every generation is materialistic. The reason the newer generation seems more inclined is simple. There is more stuff. Call it a boon or a bane, it is just the way it will be. That is the perk of technology. You CANNOT avoid it.
So my view regarding today’s youth: Completely normal; just the way the youth of yesteryear was and the one before.
Thanks & Best Regards,
Monik Jaiswal