>>FF programs are one of a class of cultural institutions that have evolved to give us the illusion of power, status, and security. These are experiences we all crave to one degree or another, because in evolutionary history craving these things led to an improved chance of survival and reproduction. There is nothing wrong with enjoying these feelings. What is productive, though, is to ask yourself if this is the most valuable way to enjoy those feelings. In other words, can you imagine putting the time, money and energy into some other endeavor that not only gives you a sense of power, status, and security, but also puts you on the path to creating something of lasting value?

Balderdash. FF programs provide real benefits. 2 examples:

1. My platinum elite status on CO allows me to upgrade for free on nearly every flight I take. Sitting in first makes flying a heck of a lot more comfortable - makes the experience pleasurable instead of being an ordeal.

2. For the greater part of last year, I carried on a long distance relationship. We were able to get together nearly every other week, despite a distance of 1500 miles between us, thanks to free tickets earned on FF programs.

The gist of RB's article seems to be that the primary benefit of FF programs is status and power (and that the status and power are illusory). He ignores the fact that there are real benefits to be derived by frequent flyers from intelligent participation in the programs.