Fame, a Social Disease?

In an interview several years ago I heard Harrison Ford describe
fame as a social disease. I think this is a really interesting debate.
I have a lot of friends in their 30s + who are still looking to break
into the world of Hollywood. Half the time, I wonder if people are
really aware of what they are asking for. There are a million and
one reasons why someone would want fame, money and power.
However, there are a few things that even money/fame/power
cannot buy you!

I've had the opportunity to meet some celebrities and visit shoots
and various sets and I'm not sure I would really want that kind of
lifestyle. I'm a private person, I would feel very awkward standing
all glammed up at an event, with no one but my manager, speaking
to people and shaking hands. Last large scale event I went to I saw
the way lines formed to take pictures with these stars and I felt bad
for them. It seemed like we were in Disney World and everyone
was running up to take a picture with Mickey Mouse and Goofy, only
they weren't wearing costumes and Epcote center was not in the
background. It's such an impersonal, invasive lifestyle.

The larger the star, the less privacy they get. I understand it is a
choice that these people make. I wonder if they really understand
what they are giving up before hand. You can't put a price on
privacy and anonymity. Especially when you have a family.
Personally, while I'm not particularly impressed with the way
Jennifer Anniston publicly dealt with her separation to Brad Pitt,
I'm not sure I could or would have handled it any better. My
question is, do you really think it's worth it? All very harsh criticism, competitiveness, invasiveness and lack of privacy; just to get yourself
in a movie or on a magazine cover?