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The world's favorite high profile, casino rip-off artist Danny Ocean just became a U.N. peace envoy. He will be joining the ranks of famous U.N. activists such as the quintessential sexy assassin, Mrs. Smith.

George Clooney, who won an Oscar in 2005, was recently appointed as a U.N. peace envoy. The actor's presence was already requested in Nigeria to help resolve issues with militants in the Niger Delta, according to Time magazine.

Although Clooney is an accomplished actor with a sly smile, his abilities to mediate international conflicts may be lacking.

He was, after all, the worst Batman to ever grace the silver screen.

Celebrities have for many years championed various causes. It seems that Oscar and Grammy wins translate directly into becoming the face of a charitable cause or a U.N. envoy. Even those who lack the accolades of the entertainment industry have their faces on pamphlets about cleft lips or flood victims.

Contributing to charities is always commendable, but it's important to consider the ulterior motives.

When a prominent celebrity makes a large, publicized contribution or is pictured in People magazine unloading medical supplies in Zimbabwe, chances are the sales of his or her CD or movie tickets will rise. Although it may not be a main reason behind a consumer purchase, it certainly doesn't hurt. Anything that adds to a celebrity's "likeability" factor adds to their marketability and ultimately their asking price.

However, several celebrities make contributions to charity in forms other than giant novelty checks surrounded by cameras. Paul Newman is a good example.

In 1982, Newman founded a food product company. He donates the sales proceeds to various charities. During the 26 years the company has been running, Newman has donated more than $200 million to charities, sans giant checks.

On the whole, the credit given to celebrities when it comes to being peace envoys or filling similar positions is somewhat exaggerated. While Clooney is a well-spoken person, he is at best a novice ambassador. He is mainly a face to put on a cause. Behind him there is probably a very large team researching and writing his words and replies to make sure he doesn't botch any meetings.

There is something to say about society when important causes are only recognized when their façade is the sexiest man or woman alive. It is unfortunate that reason and intelligence are no longer viable motives to encourage the public. We need eye candy to see the suffering.

I appreciate the efforts of Clooney, Angelina Jolie and the numerous other icons who use their clout to help focus our attention. Hopefully we won't always have to rely on Hollywood to tell us who to care about. They are, after all, merely entertainers.

Someday it would be nice if a seasoned professor, author or diplomat can speak to the public without the need of an A-list presenter introducing them.

Wenger is a junior studying Spanish and journalism.

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