A recession that may well turn into a depression will never stop the filthy rich from competing with each other in the acquisition of art objects, no matter how crappy. It is the job of the most savvy among the gallerists and curators to attract the richest among them to the most exclusive of art fairs where they can join battle in the open without letting anyone know exactly how much they have spent on this or that toy on offer. The value of art objects is immaterial as long as they are presented as though someone else may snatch them from right under your nose. That is the gist of Art Basel for you, whereas you dedicate an entire page to the pitiful subject (“Recession Appeal,” June 20, 2009). What is worst, you do not mention Thorstein Veblen or Quentin Bell, students of the psychology of status and conspicuous consumption of this ilk, even once. Alas, another opportunity lost!