I agree 80%. I always make fun of a certain high profile poster who always complains about the hotel changing the brand of mineral water. It's like looking for waldo...in ever one of his trip reports he always mentions the water. I find a certain airline seems to have a high percentage of these elitests. Currently they have posts about linen service slackers and missing godiva chocolates... say hello to UA flyers...
But having said that. I come from humble roots and I agree with you most of it is hot air. But, some perks are important. And I am proud of my platinum card. I EARNED it. Sure it isn't my self worth...BUT I flew hundreds of segments to earn it. I suffered through countless "fun" trips to the airport. Dealing with parking, delays etc. I do have some (and this I think you agree is key) REASONABLE expectations.
As for the poster who kinda poked fun at the status posts under the "from" part of our ID. I think they benefit the community. If someone asks a question and they recieve a answer, it gives you a feel about the credibility or knowledge of a poster. A platinum probably knows more than a silver. A good example is in the CO forum right now. A well meaning silver level flyer gave some really off the base advice on international upgrades (how easy to get). I countered they were mistaken. Now who does the newbie believe? I think the status potentially gives you a clue who has done it more times. I fly 300 flights a year. The other poster might fly as little as 2 to earn silver. Anyway, just my thoughts.