Social media has just distilled this pointless behavior into the purest form possible. The behavior is just like the good old days, but the tools aren't (you'd have to invite people around to show off your photo album persona). There were (and still are) tribespeople that demonstrate this behavior with affluence: living an outwardly great life (by having cows, goats and what-have-you on public demonstration) without substance. Politicians and celebrities are no different.

This exaggeration of this behavior has increased contrast. It is both easier to identify and self-identity people who aren't victim to this pattern. There were never the good old days, speaking in a formal logical manner. However, in the good new days it is easier to identify this bullshit and pry oneself away from it.