At least for some.
You probably know that feeling when you've lost all enjoyment of the climb, and basically all your energy, but you only have 500 feet more to go. You push. The summit draws you. It represents the will to overcome, perserverence. You don't do it to brag to anyone. You do it for you. Like Ricky Bobby.
Now, remembering that feeling - think about it on a grand scale - the tallest mountain in the world. Everest represents the ultimate test of your will, the will to beat death itself.
And the Sherpas? Whatever. If they didn't want a bunch of thrill seekers hiring, them out, they shouldn't have decided to live next to the world's tallest mountain.