The once humble hashtag symbol (a.k.a. "number sign" to the uninitiated) has gained an odd celebrity status in fairly recent history. What began as a method of organization has evolved into an unabashed cry for attention. It has become so valuable that random, unknown internet users see one's images that stock tags are used to increase views. What are we getting out of this? Fame? Celebrity? Perhaps for a select few, but as a rule it seems to have become a ritualistic way of ensuring that what we "share" is seen. Not shared in an intimate way, but rather broadcasted.
