I can't add much to what you're saying because I tend to agree. I harbor no resentment towards your friend, I think he's smart for taking advantage of the system. I wish I did more. I have some friends that make a lot of money with "covered calls", I really don't know much about it but they're supposed to be "training" me on it. They claim it's free money. -That in itself should tell you how effed up the market is as a means of valuation.
Kickstarter, which theoretically should be awesome, is actually nothing more than a formalized instrument for panhandling from your friends. Don't get me started on kickstarter.
Just saying, it can be cool if it's done right. But I agree, it's more often than not horrible. http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/timothymonger/timothy-mo...