Well, I understand all that - it's pretty obvious, isn't it? In fact, I can't tell for sure from your post if we agree or disagree on this. :oS

Only a culture that is self-absorbed with self-absorption would think that an activity whose primary purpose is to be seen actually is an important thing. Described that way (and the description is accurate, as far as it goes), it is difficult to see the difference between a political demonstration and a Hollywood movie. But I'm sure not going to base my policy opinions on which demonstration hired or attracted the most protesters any more than I am going to base them on the half-thought-through philosophies advertised by Hollywood's "art." Of course we may disagree about this, but I think that my opinion is not an uncommon one or an ill-considered one, either. I hope you can at least see where I'm coming from.