I was afraid my post would be construed as attack on 'legit' autograph seekers. However, I gave you an out, Bucklion:
You are among the former, and not the latter. I have no doubt your basement/Buckeye room is awesome. I'd love to have a few beers and watch a game in such an environment.
Herein is the problem. It is clearly not worthless. Each and every signed piece of memorablila will fetch a price. It's the 'aftermarket' that is the problem.
I'm sorry if I came off as attacking a hobby - I know BP has many autograph collectors. I have no problem with 'legit' autograph sessions, etc. I am just disgusted at the buying and selling of this stuff. Much like I'm disgusted at the buying and selling of ivory. Sure, buying some little carved ivory knicknack in some third world bazaar seems innocent enough. However, that simple act of giving someone money for that little piece of ivory encouraged the continued poaching of elephants back up teh supply chain. The naive tourist didn't shoot an elephant, but he participated in that supply chain that killed a magnificent beast.
I don't want to see our magnificant beast slain, and I don't think you do either.