You can view it as manipulative, which it is, or you can view it as a signal that you contribute to the site.

Some people use the cowboy hats as a quick indicator of whether a post is likely to be spammy or not. Once you develop a reputation, you don't need it, but while your name is unfamiliar, it might help you attract readers.

They also tend to pay for themselves, with how the rewards system works, so you're really just shooting yourself in the foot by not having one.