These are not mutually exclusive conditions. Sure, they are sucking at the teat of our failed society, but they are making bank while doing that. And making a lot more bank than I am, sitting here at my computer in my cube.
My first inclination is to check the “brainless pinhead” box, but I have to admit that they exhibit a certain entrepreneurial genius. They have managed to make a fortune out of sheer vanity and shamelessness. Though I say with confidence that they are tacky, tasteless, and a general disgrace to our culture, I will also say that I haven’t made a fortune with my good taste and sterling sensibilities, so who is dumber?
Celebrities’ sole rationale is that people are interested in looking at them. Talent is immaterial. For whatever reason, the Kardashians are of interest to people and they make money for companies, so the free market has spoken. Accusing them of being vain or shameless is laughable. They act they way the public wants them to act; if not, people would stop watching. They’re popularity and influence makes them culture icons. Kim does seem to have some interest in fashion (whether it’s legitimate or not is unknowable) and I suppose she might be a fashion icon, although that seems a little debatable right now.