Still, he cannot deny a growing suspicion that all is not well. Fame is a big deal in modern society. As Cowen shows, the nature of fame has changed drastically in the last century or two. This is largely because fame is more accessible in the modern age, with technology helping to spread the information that makes for fame. Cowen emphasizes that fame and merit do not go hand in hand, claiming that fame is shaped by the market and that this inevitably leads to the greatest fame not going to those who are most worthy.
Widespread appeal can also lead to greater fame.
Both complexity and ambiguity allow for varied interpretations, with people adapting them to their own beliefs. Allowing for varied interpretations it appeals to a greater audience than if its message was more clearly stated. Cowen also discusses some of the consequences of fame. Not all people are willing to subject themselves to such scrutiny, leading some who might otherwise be well-suited to public service to avoid it. He also points to fame as becoming a risk-minimizing factor that may be detrimental to the creation of a superior product by the famous.