LinkedIn Recommendations - how valid or important are they?

I think the key is WHAT the recommendation says about the professional. When someone refers to a specific accomplishment made by the individual or a presents a clear demonstration of the VALUE that the professional provided, then the recommendation becomes a value proposition. Recommendations that are vague or “warm and fuzzy” don't lend any credibility to the professional, which is what a recommendation ought to do.

And remember, you don't have to accept or show those warm and fuzzy recommendations on your profile!