In his classic work “THE THEORY OF THE LEISURE CLASS” the economist Thorstein Veblen explored the social meaning of wealth and class. In particular, he analyzed the behavior of the rich people of his day (mid-1890’s), and concluded that wealth beyond a certain level could not be used as a marker of status, unless it was spent extravagantly. In essence, the late 19th century “noveau riche” person needed to differentiate himself from the herd, so he spent lavishly on external trappings (huge mansions, elaborate wardrobes, and expensive social rituals). Of course, this was easy to do in that era, when the gap between rich and working class was so wide. However, today, most people have the necessities of life, and even working class people can afford nice cars and gadgets. So how do the rich of today keep their status up? They can indulge in expensive sports like yacht racing and polo, but it seems to me that the general public is not in awe of these activities any more. One thing I have noticed, the richer people are, the plainer are their trappings-I’ve seen $25,000 wristwatches that look like $25.00 Timex’s. As we move into the 21st century, what will the rich use to reinforce their perceived superiority?
One word, my friend: clones!
Nothing says “I’M A RICH BASTARD!” like a perfect working replica of yourself in the passenger seat of your Mercedes wearing matching shades and driving gloves or tanning next to you on the sun deck of your 50’ yacht.
Yet to be reconciled with the reality of the dark for a moment, I go on wandering from dream to dream.
I hope TVeblen notices this thread and responds to it! 
I’ve always taken consolation in the face that the rich and beautiful still have to sit and shit like everyone else. You can’t have the deification if you’re still making with the defecation. Therefore, I predict the next must-have status symbol will be the high-tech, anus-free ass.
And no, bicycle messenger-style colostomy bags ain’t gonna cut it.
Come to think of it, I’ve never taken consolation in the face. Typically, it’s up the butt, Bob.
Public office, president for the richest, and lesser offices for the mere millionaires, seems to be already becoming popular.
Further along, maybe space station resorts; brain implants with receivers that can pick up messages from staff members, so the rich have instant access to knowledge and eloquent responses; their own religion, with them as the prophet.
OH, I don’t think I would have any trouble in that area. If anyone would like to conduct a study, you can send me money, I’ll give it a dry run and get back to you.
This life is a test. It is only a test. If it had been an actual life, you would have received further instructions on where to go and what to do.