I like the reputation system. I think that being able to see who gave you the rep makes if very effective and stops it from becoming an abusive system (not that some people won't abuse it, but that's just reality). I think it makes a lot of people stop and think before they dash off a harsh impulse post to something they take exception to since they know what they write will be "judged". However, I find it hard to be that judge, so I've never given anything out but good rep, and that mostly to things that have made me laugh.
Regardless of whether you are posting in a controversial thread or not, there is always the chance someone will not be happy with what you said or how you said it. Ken, didn't you get zinged for making a disparaging comment about Starbucks? However, if you look at who is giving you good rep and bad rep, and the good rep is coming from the leaders of the rep pack, then you're doing something right and shouldn't be afraid of posting. And I have to chime in and agree with Jessica, it's pretty darn peachy keen to get good rep from someone high up on the rep scale. It's like, "Wow, Andy Baker liked that!"
Heidi
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It's just a rumor that I've come by most of my rep points by making fun of Dave Lavery.
