I think selflishness isn't a factor of age, just a factor of personality. I've given up seats for a long time to those who needed it (or wanted it) and I am 31 but it's a shame that this guy acted the way he did and then covered the window up... what a tool.
Although I've sat next to crying children before as a solo traveller and just wanted to zone out with my headphones so can see where he's coming from. But then, I had an aisle seat so I wasn't blocking any view :)
All's well that ends well and glad the lady stepped in to offer her seat.
I guess it all starts with the education one receives at home. Maybe no one had ever mentioned to him that would be nice to think of others.
Yea I agree with that, if you have never seen kindness or compassion to others when you were growing up then you are not likely to show it as an adult.