The Reputation System - How, Exactly, Does it Work?

[Linus]

Originally Posted by Words

I too have issues with the thanks system as is. And yes, I do think it has the potential to alienate.

Say two folks were discussing a 'hot' topic and I thanked one. It might be because I agree with them and appreciate their speaking up. It could also be, however, because I disagree with them but still appreciate their offering an alternative point of view. The problem is, the other person, who has no way of knowing why I am thanking them, could easily assume that I'm taking sides, which in turn could make them feel alienated.

Make sense?

Words

It does make sense. But at the same time, I've seen people quote a whole post and say something like, "great post" at the end and that's it. Doesn't add much to the conversation (which is why I suggested this to Medusa -- kind of a way to alleviate those and hopefully encourage more discussion).

At the same time you could thank both for their posts at giving you alternate views of things, whether you agree or don't agree.

Originally Posted by Mister Bent

Words described one relevant scenario.

Another might be when moderation occurs in a thread and one user is specifically targeted. While many may agree that it was necessary and want to support the mod's efforts, half a dozen people publicly "approving" of the moderation has the appearance of a dog pile. (I can PM you with an example of the sort of thing to which I refer.)

"Thanks" may show support and show appreciation for another's words, but isn't that why there are reps (and replies)?

It's not a huge deal, just something that's been niggling at me a bit, and that maybe deserves a little more consideration.

Well, the concept of the "Thanks" button was to thank for information or providing a post that was useful. As I mentioned above, it was more to address those simple "thanks for a great post" responses that can appear after one post and nearly kill a discussion. I think the usage here is beyond that.

The "dog pile" affect (and I have seen those elsewhere) can even happen in replies. I actual detest that. Yes, sometimes we need to be reminded to play nice with each other (doesn't mean agree; just respectful) but everyone else continuing to echo it (kinda like kids in playground) is a bit much. Perhaps disabling for the mods and admin to avoid that effect?

This definitely gives me more food for thought as I never really realized that this was being used in that way. As much as I like it, I wonder if perhaps it would be better to remove it given that it may have an adverse effect (creating more divisiveness than supporting each other).