robert_1,
For most people, instead of learning and understanding science they choose to follow the blind, and have a justification to their foolish (ego trip) quests to brag about their latest piece of equipment. It is mostly about the hardware specs rather than the music.
I don't see it that way, and it's always dicey trying to ascribe motivations to other people. Especially when it comes to people's views we don't agree with, we tend to get that wrong giving it the worst spin possible.
My impression, not trying to read anyone's mind, is that people buying expensive cables etc are just as honest and motivated by a passion for music/sound/gear as anyone else. They are just relying on a certain method of moving through that space. (And one I tend to use as well - listening, trying things out).
I really don't see this rampant "I just want to buy this expensive cable/gear to show off how much it costs" thing happening, at least not in enthusiast forums like this where it seems clear to me we all share enthusiasm for music, sound and the buzz we get from our systems.