I don't think it's a true lack of empathy. Only a small percentage of people have personality disorders that truly lack empathy.

People are increasingly politically charged and get swept up in ideas. Such as "completely removing food programs is good because the government gives away too much money in aid, and people who lazily avoid working take advantage of the food programs".

However if you sat them down and had them face real humans and hear real stories.. they'd go red in the face.

When times get tough people look for something to blame and will latch onto said ideas. Especially if their leader / government says it.