Modern Heroes

Who were the heroes of the past? Are they the people who contributed to education, to the progress of mankind? Philosophers, leaders, generals, authors, composers, artists, scientists? Plato, Caesar, Napoleon, Shakespeare, Beethoven, Renoir, Newton? I wouldn't know and I wouldn't dare to actually decide on any names. I wasn't there, so I am not able to say anything for sure. But I am here, now, and I see who the heroes presently seem to be. I use the word "hero" in a way that does not actually correspond to the dictionary definition (a person who is admired for courage or noble qualities). Who are today's heroes? Some athletes, but mainly film and "reality" stars, singers, show-people. I believe this is about all. The philosophers and scientists we have nowadays are largely ignored by the majority, classic musicians may be only known for their skills in playing an instrument rather than for actually composing music, generals either stay in their headquarters or lead largely unpopular wars there is nothing to admire about, and so on. Therefore who are especially young people looking up to? Wow! Plenty of shining stars, whom fans know absolutely everything about, i.e. not only what they do in their (sometimes questionable ) performances but also what they wear in everyday life, what they say when they order dinner! They know by heart facts of their private lives, collect their photos, posters, memorabilia etc. Therefore it's not only admiration for their skills (if they really have any!). Modern fans end up idolizing the artist and the person, they take him or her as a model, wish they would be like them and do not realize how fake (and often unhappy) their lives are, how dull is the metal that looks so sparkling under the spotlight.