Good points Amspir, I mostly agree. 

However while we are talking semantics I will point out that the idea of "intrinsic value" is inherently flawed.  There is no such thing.  Value always depends on context, it's definition is in what you can get for it from another person. 

For an extreme example:  When dying of thirst, I will give you all I own for a cup of water.  When drowning, I will give you all I own to take some water away. 

Another nice quote of relevance I came across today:  "The only true form of wealth is that produced by the soil"  - Frederick the Great