"Karl Winkler" wrote in message
oups.com

The same observation could be held for those into
photography (equipment), cars, skiing, woodworking, etc.

To varying degrees. Add Golf.

There must be some basic human need to attach
significance to objects beyond what can be observed in
the physical realm.

Rather readily observable in Shinto and other similar religions.

Also observable in some forms of Christianity, examples being so-called holy
relics, etc.

Perhaps it's simpler than that:
people wish to buy things that they can't attain some
other way.

Buying takes mere money as opposed to interaction or commitment.

In the photo newsgroups, equipment is
discussed endlessly while the .technique groups see very
little activity.

Not so much that way in Video groups, particuarly those related to video
editing.

Clearly, it's easier to discuss the
merits of equipment rather than to focus on what really
makes the difference: the recording or photography
techniques, etc.

Seems like there is some balance between those influences in RAP.