Come on.
On any given day there are many human beings that are suffering. Just because it isn't on CNN doesn't mean suffering doesn't exist.
Maybe someone who buys the iPad 2 is going to invent something that saves people from the next earthquake.
Again - just what you said about the Japan earthquake shows that people value the dollar sign ($$$) more than just about anything else.
I get that - however these are extenuating circumstances. Yes, there are people in need all over the world at any given time. However there are also ongoing efforts to aid these people in some cases. Other cases due to political reasons, they can't be helped. Something unprecedented such as the tsunami requires efforts over and above what aid is already available.
I for one am cancelling my ski weekend and donating what I would have spent to relief efforts.
Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against Apple products - I can see 4 from where I sit.