Crucifixes can go through same process. The paradox is that idolatry starts out with good intentions. An aid to worship becomes the barrier to worship. The twentieth century has its idols also. Liturgy and buildings can take the place of God.
Idolatry means substituting the thing for the person.
Our god is that which we think to be the most important thing in life. It is where we give our time, thought, strength. When things become more important than people, idolatry enters. Swearing - verbal misrepresentation of God. How we take God's name in vain.