Should the Reputation System be removed?

[Cicero]

Seeing as this has become a nice little debate in the VT HQ forum, do you vote "Yes" on removing the Reputation System or "No"?

I think no, we should keep it. Because many people work hard on the answers they give, and removing the rep system would kind of erase all their hard work. Sure, the thanks system is a good system, but it would still lead to the same problem that the Reputation System has and I'm sure everyone wants recognition for their hard work. If someone really dislikes the rep system, they can simply turn off the rep system, or even request to restart their reputation all together. I know i dont want all my rep being removed and i know others feel the same.

Additionally, (an idea) instead of getting to leave any comment you want for neg reps, you have to pick pre-determined reasons for neg rep like "post was spam" or "Post was not helpful" or "Left inappropriate post".

This is a private poll btw, so no one sees your answer.

[xxPerryPlatypusxx]

oh damn votes are even
I think the neg rep system should be removed but users should still be able to receive ++ rep when they deserve it most :)
the neg reps are what are over abused :(

[ReginaGeorge]

I think it should stay how it is. I mean, the rep basically kind of shows credibility. If you make good posts, you get good rep. You can get an idea of a person from their rep compared to their posts. If they have several negative bars by their name, then I know that they don't post very nice things and so I wouldn't find them as reliable as say, someone, with several green bars. It also shouldn't be taken too seriously though. Don't base your entire opinion of a user on their rep, it should just be a general first-off indicator. People who talk about complaining about getting too much negative rep are taking it too seriously (making some nice posts wouldn't hurt either). I try to put a decent amount of effort into my posts when people ask for advice, so I like that the rep system reflects that.

[Ryhanna]

Nope.

At the end of the day, the rep system is just one small feature on this website. People make such a big deal over rep, when it doesn't even really require anyones attention. It's just a fun feature to help provide feedback on your posts. Sure, people sometimes neg rep for silly things, but who cares? Does it really affect you to the point where we should demand it be removed? That's almost as silly as the people who neg rep for silly reasons. :P

I don't think it should be removed, but if it were removed I would like it to be replaced with a 'like' system. I'm a part of other forums that use such a system, and, like rep, it shows that other users appreciate what you post, but without the option to be 'negative.'

[xxPerryPlatypusxx]

atleast we can Rep on here
on my other forum I am apart of their site is so slow you can't even report a post or rep or anything. there proxys are screwed up.

[Horizon]

Well my question is, why does removing the rep system remove their hard work? shouldn't they be trying to have good posts, regardless of a reward? Please don't shoot me for asking this either, because I am serious.

[Ryhanna]

Well my question is, why does removing the rep system remove their hard work? shouldn't they be trying to have good posts, regardless of a reward? Please don't shoot me for asking this either, because I am serious.

I don't really believe that it ruins their hard work. The hard work is in the posts, not the rep. But rep does act as a reflector of a posters posting quality. A person who posts helpful and insightful posts is more likely to have a higher rep. That's not to say that people who have low rep cannot make insightful posts, either.

[Iron Man]

I don't really believe that it ruins their hard work. The hard work is in the posts, not the rep. But rep does act as a reflector of a posters posting quality. A person who posts helpful and insightful posts is more likely to have a higher rep. That's not to say that people who have low rep cannot make insightful posts, either.

Yes, that was the original plan.

But, as stated before, the status quo has changed. People rep farm to accumulate high rep counts. Why do we even need to be rewarded for helping someone? Are we that petty and selfish?

[Horizon]

I don't really believe that it ruins their hard work. The hard work is in the posts, not the rep. But rep does act as a reflector of a posters posting quality. A person who posts helpful and insightful posts is more likely to have a higher rep. That's not to say that people who have low rep cannot make insightful posts, either.

This is very true, and it would be helpful, if the following didn't happen:

Rep-Farming: Where people go around positively repping eachother so their rep bars are bigger
(I don't know if there is really a name for it) Attack-Repping: People going around and constantly neg repping a user to make them look like they post poorly.

If those two factors were taken out, I'd vote to keep the rep system. But, also, if those two factors were taken out, we wouldn't be having this discussion in the first place haha.

[Cicero]

Yes, that was the original plan.

But, as stated before, the status quo has changed. People rep farm to accumulate high rep counts. Why do we even need to be rewarded for helping someone? Are we that petty and selfish?

People like me want recognition for the quality posts that are made.

[workingatperfect]

I think if it stays, it should be private. Otherwise, it's become rather pointless.

[Iron Man]

People like me want recognition for the quality posts that are made.

How sad that people admit they want recognition for helping someone.

Faith in humanity...lost.

[Cicero]

How sad that people admit they want recognition for helping someone.

Faith in humanity...lost.

People want recognition for tons of things, how much money they make, how much charity work they do, how good theyre doing at their job, etc.

Recognition is nothing terrible, that's why employees want recognition from their bosses.

[workingatperfect]

People want recognition for tons of things, how much money they make, how much charity work they do, how good theyre doing at their job, etc.

Recognition is nothing terrible, that's why employees want recognition from their bosses.

His point was that you should help people for the sake of helping them, not to be praised and for people to think highly of you.

[Ryhanna]

Yes, that was the original plan.

But, as stated before, the status quo has changed. People rep farm to accumulate high rep counts. Why do we even need to be rewarded for helping someone? Are we that petty and selfish?

I agree, it has changed. What do you believe constitutes a fair negative rep? Do you believe that it is flexible enough to allow the possibility of unfair rep being punishable to some degree?

[Iron Man]

I agree, it has changed. What do you believe constitutes a fair negative rep? Do you believe that it is flexible enough to allow the possibility of unfair rep being punishable to some degree?

Hmm, that is a good question. Honestly, the only fair neg rep that I see at the moment, is if someone is bashing/trolling.

[Ryhanna]

Hmm, that is a good question. Honestly, the only fair neg rep that I see at the moment, is if someone is bashing/trolling.

Wouldn't it be more suitable to 'report' a member who is bashing/trolling, though? I think we need to look at the rep system objectively and determine what it really should be used for. If it's acceptable to +rep a post that you agree with, why is it not to -rep a post that you disagree with?

All I'm saying is, it appears that what's acceptable to rep and neg rep is evidently not black and white.

[Iron Man]

Wouldn't it be more suitable to 'report' a member who is bashing/trolling, though? I think we need to look at the rep system objectively and determine what it really should be used for. If it's acceptable to +rep a post that you agree with, why is it not to -rep a post that you disagree with?

All I'm saying is, it appears that what's acceptable to rep and neg rep is evidently not black and white.

There are people who neg rep people that don't agree with them/people they don't agree with. Which goes back to the whole ego thing. They think that they are right, and by neg repping people and saying that they don't agree with them, they feel big. Thus, an enlarged ego.

By getting rid of the rep system altogether, you can start from scratch, in a way. Let people sort out how they want to deal with it. They can simply say "your post helped me a lot" or whatever they see fit to do.

[Ryhanna]

There are people who neg rep people that don't agree with them/people they don't agree with. Which goes back to the whole ego thing. They think that they are right, and by neg repping people and saying that they don't agree with them, they feel big. Thus, an enlarged ego.

By getting rid of the rep system altogether, you can start from scratch, in a way. Let people sort out how they want to deal with it. They can simply say "your post helped me a lot" or whatever they see fit to do.

Personally, I'd like to see a 'like' system. It shows support for a post, without the option to criticise the post. I like having some sort of feedback, or knowing that people appreciate what I post. Likes also allow that.

[Cicero]

Personally, I'd like to see a 'like' system. It shows support for a post, without the option to criticise the post. I like having some sort of feedback, or knowing that people appreciate what I post. Likes also allow that.

So you'd be getting one sided opinions, because those who don't like your post won't get to give you that feedback

[workingatperfect]

So you'd be getting one sided opinions, because those who don't like your post won't get to give you that feedback

If people don't like what you post, or find that you were unhelpful/rude/etc. They can quote you and disagree with you.

[Cicero]

If people don't like what you post, or find that you were unhelpful/rude/etc. They can quote you and disagree with you.

The same can be said if they do like your post.

[Iron Man]

Personally, I'd like to see a 'like' system. It shows support for a post, without the option to criticise the post. I like having some sort of feedback, or knowing that people appreciate what I post. Likes also allow that.

There would still be people expecting a like for "working hard on their post", and putting it in their signature.

The same can be said if they do like your post.

So, problem solved. Get rid of the rep system, and let people reply with why they agree or disagree, right?

[workingatperfect]

The same can be said if they do like your post.

And people already do that quite often. The rep system is really quite useless.

I still say that if there was any way to make it more private, that would be the best solution. That way people like you who need a pat on the back for helping people still get their recognition, but it eliminates the popularity contest part of it and people will stop complaining about how it's going to make them look bad.

[Ryhanna]

So you'd be getting one sided opinions, because those who don't like your post won't get to give you that feedback

It's better than people bitching over getting neg repped. If this won't work, then people either have to get over it or we need to remove it. I'd be very sad to see it removed, honestly. I'm a member of several forums where a like system is used, and it's used very appropriately.

You're always going to have people who try desperately to be accepted or become popular. If they aren't begging for rep, they'll be begging for friend requests. If they aren't begging for friend requests they'll be spamming to achieve the highest post count possible. Hard to win, really, isn't it?

[Cicero]

It's better than people bitching over getting neg repped. If this won't work, then people either have to get over it or we need to remove it. I'd be very sad to see it removed, honestly. I'm a member of several forums where a like system is used, and it's used very appropriately.

You're always going to have people who try desperately to be accepted or become popular. If they aren't begging for rep, they'll be begging for friend requests. If they aren't begging for friend requests they'll be spamming to achieve the highest post count possible. Hard to win, really, isn't it?

When I first joined I got a hell storm of neg rep and all I was told was to get over it rep didnt matter. So I don't know why it can't be told to those who are complaining about it now (and I had -2,000 points or so)

[Iron Man]

When I first joined I got a hell storm of neg rep and all I was told was to get over it rep didnt matter. So I don't know why it can't be told to those who are complaining about it now (and I had -2,000 points or so)

Some people want it gone for that exact reason: It doesn't matter. It is unimportant. So, why would you vouch for keeping the rep system? Oh yeah, you want to be recognized for "giving good advice and what not". So, rep is important to you, because being known is important to you, right?

[Cicero]

Some people want it gone for that exact reason: It doesn't matter. It is unimportant. So, why would you vouch for keeping the rep system? Oh yeah, you want to be recognized for "giving good advice and what not". So, rep is important to you, because being known is important to you, right?

No, power is important to me.
lol jk :P

-edited for unnecessary spam effect. -Emerald Dream

[Ryhanna]

When I first joined I got a hell storm of neg rep and all I was told was to get over it rep didnt matter. So I don't know why it can't be told to those who are complaining about it now (and I had -2,000 points or so)
I do tell it to those who complain. Maybe not in those words, I try to say it more politely. But really, rep does. not. matter. If you get +rep, great, fine, it means people are liking what you're posting. If you get -rep, even better. Provided it's been used properly, you've probably said something inappropriate and you can learn from that. Rep is supposed to be constructive, and nothing more.

Some people want it gone for that exact reason: It doesn't matter. It is unimportant. So, why would you vouch for keeping the rep system? Oh yeah, you want to be recognized for "giving good advice and what not". So, rep is important to you, because being known is important to you, right?
I agree 100%. The thing that most people fail to understand is that rep isn't about recognition. If people understood this, there wouldn't be a problem. Rep isn't about being recognised for your posts, and it does not determine your status within the community. All it is meant to be is a service to provide constructive feedback on your posts. Perhaps disabling the reputation feature, while still providing a similar service for feedback is something we should look into.

[Taurus]

I think that you should only be able to give positive rep. If you really have an issue you can just report the post.

[Iron Man]

I think that you should only be able to give positive rep. If you really have an issue you can just report the post.

Still, that doesn't solve the problem of it being a petty popularity contest.

[Twilly F. Sniper]

Nope. I absolutely hate this system.
People use it too much; to bash others. I'm a fairly good example of this as almost every neg rep I have is absolutely pointless. Bashing is the only sensible answer to why they do it.

[Stronger]

Just remove it completely, its been too adused, and people should realize that they shouldn't always expect some rep for helping, they should be able to feel good for helping rather than lets help and I'm going to expect some rep from you.

[DerBear]

I think it should be removed. People don't need a "green bar" or "Positive Rep Comment" to be told they made a good post. The rep system has become abused and many people on Virtual Teen have started rep farming or have participated in it and this means those who have participated in rep farming haven't earned their rep honestly.

Furthermore the amount of work Mike and Ron have to go through to read peoples countless PMs about "Blah rep was given unfairly" has surely grown and I don't think they deserve to be pounded with all these requests.

The Rep system even in last year has become an even bigger problem with even more people complaining about the rep system.

Rep is now become very stupid and it isn't really helpful. If you make a post that is helpful then you don't need a +rep vote to say its helpful the OP with thank you or send you a message. Personally if someone makes a good post, I'd be much happier to send them a PM or VM saying that their post was good rather than giving + rep.

Honestly the rep system has become more trouble than its worth. Personally people care too much about rep now. It was a nice little addon and now it has become something completely abused.

[Breakeven]

http://media.tumblr.com/83966b4fc9d4fbea745cb71b1985a074/tumblr_inline_mj2346kIVu1ryeraf.gif

[Erasmus]

I think it should be removed. As Derri said, it must take up a ton of time for the admins having to deal with complaints, and it's just so widely abused.

And if it's not going to be removed, I think a "thanks" system would be the best alternative. It would be only positive feedback, and the amount that people could give would all be equal, not dependent on their own rep.

[Human]

I believe that the system should be revised

I think there should only be positive reputation, as most negative reputation is just 'spammed' if you don't like someone.

[Nellerin]

Nope.

At the end of the day, the rep system is just one small feature on this website. People make such a big deal over rep, when it doesn't even really require anyones attention. It's just a fun feature to help provide feedback on your posts. Sure, people sometimes neg rep for silly things, but who cares? Does it really affect you to the point where we should demand it be removed? That's almost as silly as the people who neg rep for silly reasons. :P

I don't think it should be removed, but if it were removed I would like it to be replaced with a 'like' system. I'm a part of other forums that use such a system, and, like rep, it shows that other users appreciate what you post, but without the option to be 'negative.'

Ya I agree with this basically. The rep system is ok but the neg rep portion of it could use some fixing.

Because even though rep should not matter to people, if you are far into the red (whether you deserve it or not) then people do look at you differently.

[Gwen]

No, it gives people a sense of achievement and I have no problem in that (And watching people get so serious about fake internet points is funny :P )

[StoppingTime]

its being discussed and moving towards action. the reputation system is ridiculous in more ways than i can say. people can't handle it, there's wont be anything replacing it either. there's absolutely no use for it to be on a site like this, it makes absolutely no difference because why would you need a pat on the back for helping people? shouldn't that just be done out of the desire to do good? someones epenis however big or small makes no difference to me because from the amount of pm's i get about it, most dont know how to use it. i'm gonna get rid of it, the first chance i have enough time to do it.


I completely, 100% agree with this. I hate the rep system, and it needs to go. You shouldn't need an incentive to help or post well on a help site. Also, it's intimidating to new members and it creates a "class" system here. They'll see members with relatively high reps and think that those users are better than they are, and that they better watch out for them - which is completely ridiculous. There is nobody on this site who is better than anyone, and it will always be that way. You shouldn't need a number and some pretty green blocks to help people - you should help people because it's the right thing to do.

Oh, and inb4 the "HURRR DURRR but we use it in debates which isn't the helping part of this site hurrr" Well we're mainly a help site, so that's what our needs should be based around.

[xmojox]

Would it be possible to simply remove the anonymity from the system? It's easy to send negative comments when the person you're sending them to has no idea who sent them. Why send a negative comment and then be too cowardly to sign it? If the system could identify the source of negative feedback wouldn't people use it more responsibly?

[Erasmus]

Would it be possible to simply remove the anonymity from the system? It's easy to send negative comments when the person you're sending them to has no idea who sent them. Why send a negative comment and then be too cowardly to sign it? If the system could identify the source of negative feedback wouldn't people use it more responsibly?

But that would do nothing to stop the rep farming.

[StoppingTime]

Would it be possible to simply remove the anonymity from the system? It's easy to send negative comments when the person you're sending them to has no idea who sent them. Why send a negative comment and then be too cowardly to sign it? If the system could identify the source of negative feedback wouldn't people use it more responsibly?

It can already do that, we just don't have it enabled for normal members. And I don't really think it'd solve the problem, rather, it'd only make people complain even more. I doubt anyone (or mostly anyone), will be stopped from making a rude comment just so someone can see who posted it.


The problem is the sense of power people think they have when they've got a high number. They think they're better than users with low rep, usually even if they don't admit it. And new users do see it like that. They'd likely rather reply or listen to someone with a bunch of little green bars rather than all red.

[xmojox]

But that would do nothing to stop the rep farming.

It can already do that, we just don't have it enabled for normal members. And I don't really think it'd solve the problem, rather, it'd only make people complain even more. I doubt anyone (or mostly anyone), will be stopped from making a rude comment just so someone can see who posted it.


The problem is the sense of power people think they have when they've got a high number. They think they're better than users with low rep, usually even if they don't admit it. And new users do see it like that. They'd likely rather reply or listen to someone with a bunch of little green bars rather than all red.

This thread has convinced me. Scrap it.

[Taurus]

Still, that doesn't solve the problem of it being a petty popularity contest.

Thats true. I'm still relatively new so I don't know all the issues, but I still think it's a step in the right direction.

[Harley Quinn]

People like me want recognition for the quality posts that are made.

That's funny, I don't actually see where you've made quality posts considering when something doesn't go your way, you edit shit out. You're a rep farmer, simple as, so you not wanting the rep system to go is you basically arguing 'I like rep, I get rep for nothing, if it goes no one will like me'.

I'm for it being removed because it's been abused since I've joined, and probably before then. This is positive rep I'm talking about, seeing as we all need negative at some points. I love getting neg rep, it makes me feel important.

If we got a like system, that'd be better, no points no nothing just a simple 'I like this', at the end of the day you help because you want to, not because you want an ego boost personally. If you want that you take the whole meaning out of helping.

[PinkFloyd]

I really think it should be. I mean when I get negative rep, I become pissed when I really shouldn't... If the negative side was taken out and it was like the Facebook system with only the like button.

[Emerald Dream]

People want recognition for tons of things, how much money they make, how much charity work they do, how good theyre doing at their job, etc.

Recognition is nothing terrible, that's why employees want recognition from their bosses.

It's not exactly charitable if you (or other people) are running around trumpeting about how great you are for doing it. Then it becomes more about you.

[Lights]

That's funny, I don't actually see where you've made quality posts considering when something doesn't go your way, you edit shit out. You're a rep farmer, simple as, so you not wanting the rep system to go is you basically arguing 'I like rep, I get rep for nothing, if it goes no one will like me'.

I was going to post exactly this. Cicero, you have negative repped many people including myself simply because we don't share the same view as you. You clearly swap rep with one or two other users with high rep power regularly. You are farming rep power, pure and simple - and you are proof of how the system is abused. No way did you get 597 points of rep power legitimately.

I like the green blocks because they look nice, but I don't care much at all for the rep power. I think many use it as an ego boost and I think some people find it more intimidating to debate with someone who has a high rep because they don't want that person to negative rep them, thus giving them those infamous red blocks. A 'thanks' system would probably work a lot better since there wouldn't be any negative input. Some of you say we shouldn't need any kind of thanks or motivation booster on a help forum, but I would disagree. A form of thanks encourages participation on the forums and influences users to better the quality of their posts as much as possible so that they can earn a 'thanks' that recognises their contribution.

The only thing I'm wondering about is if there would be a way to prevent 'thanks' farming.

[Emerald Dream]

The only thing I'm wondering about is if there would be a way to prevent 'thanks' farming.

If it was possible, the "thanks" could be tallied so that only the user receiving them could see it. No need for it to be a public thing, because that's where the problem with farming comes in. Attaching names to the thanks may or may not even be important. Just as long as everyone only gets one opportunity to give thanks per post.

[Erasmus]

If it was possible, the "thanks" could be tallied so that only the user receiving them could see it. No need for it to be a public thing, because that's where the problem with farming comes in. Attaching names to the thanks may or may not even be important. Just as long as everyone only gets one opportunity to give thanks per post.

I like this. Either the rep is private, so only the user can see it, or it's got rid of all together.

[Danny Phantom]

If it was possible, the "thanks" could be tallied so that only the user receiving them could see it. No need for it to be a public thing, because that's where the problem with farming comes in. Attaching names to the thanks may or may not even be important. Just as long as everyone only gets one opportunity to give thanks per post.

How clever and smart Alli :)
I approve!

[Southside]

Yes, some people just give negative rep for the hell of it.

[Desuetude]

And new users do see it like that. They'd likely rather reply or listen to someone with a bunch of little green bars rather than all red.
I haven't thought of this in a while. I remember that as a newbie I used to be really intimidated by people with loads of positive rep and that's just pathetic because it just means they've been on the site/been posting longer. Rep does no good for VT anymore and quite frankly it's only been a luxury and has never held any meaning so I'm glad senior staff are looking to get rid of it.

[Professional Russian]

People like me want recognition for the quality posts that are made.

Why would you wan recognition? I don't understand why you need it. as long as you know you helped that's all that matters. Ive made some grreat posts before and never got recognized for it. did i give a fuck? nope....

[Cicero]

That's funny, I don't actually see where you've made quality posts considering when something doesn't go your way, you edit shit out. You're a rep farmer, simple as, so you not wanting the rep system to go is you basically arguing 'I like rep, I get rep for nothing, if it goes no one will like me'.

I'm for it being removed because it's been abused since I've joined, and probably before then. This is positive rep I'm talking about, seeing as we all need negative at some points. I love getting neg rep, it makes me feel important.

If we got a like system, that'd be better, no points no nothing just a simple 'I like this', at the end of the day you help because you want to, not because you want an ego boost personally. If you want that you take the whole meaning out of helping.

Many people rep me because they agree with me and I stand up for what I believe in instead of following the herd. I stand up for many things that aren't all that popular on here. But I have made many quality posts that do in fact go unrecognized.

Well I don't like getting neg rep, especially when I get neg repped on a post that expresses my religious views, which seems to be quiet popular on here. You have no proof what so ever that feeds your claim that I'm a rep farmer.

I'm not basically saying 'I like rep, I get rep for nothing, if it goes no one will like me'. What I am saying is "I enjoy getting rep on posts I make, because it makes me feel like someone has recognized the hardwork I put into my posts", sure people can just say a simple thank you, but that doesn't happen as much as people like to think it does.

I receive most of my rep from ROTW, either because people hate how I think or they like or agree on how I think.


There is also no reason for you to be so rude.*
I was going to post exactly this. Cicero, you have negative repped many people including myself simply because we don't share the same view as you. You clearly swap rep with one or two other users with high rep power regularly. You are farming rep power, pure and simple - and you are proof of how the system is abused. No way did you get 597 points of rep power legitimately.

I like the green blocks because they look nice, but I don't care much at all for the rep power. I think many use it as an ego boost and I think some people find it more intimidating to debate with someone who has a high rep because they don't want that person to negative rep them, thus giving them those infamous red blocks. A 'thanks' system would probably work a lot better since there wouldn't be any negative input. Some of you say we shouldn't need any kind of thanks or motivation booster on a help forum, but I would disagree. A form of thanks encourages participation on the forums and influences users to better the quality of their posts as much as possible so that they can earn a 'thanks' that recognises their contribution.

The only thing I'm wondering about is if there would be a way to prevent 'thanks' farming.
So what about those people who have 500+ rep, or even 200+ rep power? You're accusing everyone who has high rep of somehow cheating the system. I only neg rep what other would neg rep me for. I have received hundreds of unfair rep, anywhere from standing up for my religious views, to standing up for my ethical views. There was a time that I had even lost 40 rep power in a single day, rep ranging from "How could you say that....." To simple rep saying "I disagree". I give out both negative reps and positive reps somewhat equally. I find it funny how you bash me for giving out so much neg rep, when you don't realize how much positive rep I have given.

I've been neg repped for the stupidest shit ever, like one that was like "I disagree, speedos are just like any other swimming trunks" when the post I had posted said "I think people should only wear speedos if they have the right body", I've even been neg repped for asking for +rep in my signature (which most people do, that was when I was a new member". I've always been neg repped because someone doesn't agree with what I post and its perfectly within the rules to rep someone you don't agree with

I probably get more neg reps than most other people just because I think differently (and those neg reps are mostly from people with high rep), so I don't know why it's suddenly bad for me to neg rep people. I've also made sure that when I do neg rep people, its within the gudelines and its something that others do also such as "I disagree" or what not. I've especially been targeted because of my beliefs.

I'll also rep people just for saying what they believe in (which I know wouldn't be to popular), ill rep someone just to get them out of red (some random person), there's also a nice amount of reps where I don't say a single thing.

[Rayquaza]

Many people rep me because they agree with me and I stand up for what I believe in instead of following the herd. I stand up for many things that aren't all that popular on here. But I have made many quality posts that do in fact go unrecognized.

Well I don't like getting neg rep, especially when I get neg repped on a post that expresses my religious views, which seems to be quiet popular on here. You have no proof what so ever that feeds your claim that I'm a rep farmer.

I'm not basically saying 'I like rep, I get rep for nothing, if it goes no one will like me'. What I am saying is "I enjoy getting rep on posts I make, because it makes me feel like someone has recognized the hardwork I put into my posts", sure people can just say a simple thank you, but that doesn't happen as much as people like to think it does.

I receive most of my rep from ROTW, either because people hate how I think or they like or agree on how I think.


So what about those people who have 500+ rep, or even 200+ rep power? You're accusing everyone who has high rep of somehow cheating the system. I only neg rep what other would neg rep me for. I have received hundreds of unfair rep, anywhere from standing up for my religious views, to standing up for my ethical views. There was a time that I had even lost 40 rep power in a single day, rep ranging from "How could you say that....." To simple rep saying "I disagree". I give out both negative reps and positive reps somewhat equally. I find it funny how you bash me for giving out so much neg rep, when you don't realize how much positive rep I have given.

I've been neg repped for the stupidest shit ever, like one that was like "I disagree, speedos are just like any other swimming trunks" when the post I had posted said "I think people should only wear speedos if they have the right body", I've even been neg repped for asking for +rep in my signature (which most people do, that was when I was a new member". I've always been neg repped because someone doesn't agree with what I post and its perfectly within the rules to rep someone you don't agree with

I probably get more neg reps than most other people just because I think differently (and those neg reps are mostly from people with high rep), so I don't know why it's suddenly bad for me to neg rep people. I've also made sure that when I do neg rep people, its within the gudelines and its something that others do also such as "I disagree" or what not. I've especially been targeted because of my beliefs.

I'll also rep people just for saying what they believe in (which I know wouldn't be to popular), ill rep someone just to get them out of red (some random person), there's also a nice amount of reps where I don't say a single thing.

I think the community is well aware of those that have earned reputation, rather than those that make a big deal and have it high. Cicero, you are well known by the community to have a high reputation for unintelligent posts. You constantly bitch about reputation all the time, even your signature screams that out, as well as editing out posts after receiving a neg rep. It irritates people that you care so much about green blocks. You should do something about it or you will receive what is said above.
People will disagree with you in your life, but you don't complain, you just take it and become a better person. But anyway, back onto the actual topic on this thread.

I think the reputation system needs to be removed and replaced with a thanks system, even if it means people will then write in their signature "Feel free to +thanks", which I can anticipate. But the reason we need this is, as said before, to incentivise quality help and make more people post. It has worked well on other forums and doesn't receive complaints. My argument is basically, the system should be swapped for this alternative. This a site of hormonal teens, reacting badly to bad reputation is inevitable.

[Cicero]

I think the community is well aware of those that have earned reputation, rather than those that make a big deal and have it high. Cicero, you are well known by the community to have a high reputation for unintelligent posts. You constantly bitch about reputation all the time, even your signature screams that out, as well as editing out posts after receiving a neg rep. It irritates people that you care so much about green blocks. You should do something about it or you will receive what is said above.
People will disagree with you in your life, but you don't complain, you just take it and become a better person. But anyway, back onto the actual topic on this thread.

I think the reputation system needs to be removed and replaced with a thanks system, even if it means people will then write in their signature "Feel free to +thanks", which I can anticipate. But the reason we need this is, as said before, to incentivise quality help and make more people post. It has worked well on other forums and doesn't receive complaints. My argument is basically, the system should be swapped for this alternative. This a site of hormonal teens, reacting badly to bad reputation is inevitable.

Really? Hmmm, this is a genuine shock. I guess this community isn't all that different from the bullies at school. Perhaps I am in the wrong community, cause I thought this was an "accepting" and "kind" community, but thanks for proving that notion wrong. My sig does not scream for +rep, in fact, its barely noticeable. I don't bitch about rep anymore, I used to. I don't know how I can become a better person with crap other people say? I don't always edit out my posts, I've only done it every once in a while.
Maybe having high rep allows me to say what I want without having to fear going into the red from bullies like you.

[Apollo.]

I think the community is well aware of those that have earned reputation, rather than those that make a big deal and have it high. Cicero, you are well known by the community to have a high reputation for unintelligent posts. You constantly bitch about reputation all the time, even your signature screams that out, as well as editing out posts after receiving a neg rep. It irritates people that you care so much about green blocks. You should do something about it or you will receive what is said above.
People will disagree with you in your life, but you don't complain, you just take it and become a better person. But anyway, back onto the actual topic on this thread.

I think the reputation system needs to be removed and replaced with a thanks system, even if it means people will then write in their signature "Feel free to +thanks", which I can anticipate. But the reason we need this is, as said before, to incentivise quality help and make more people post. It has worked well on other forums and doesn't receive complaints. My argument is basically, the system should be swapped for this alternative. This a site of hormonal teens, reacting badly to bad reputation is inevitable.

I'd say you and others bashing Cicero and insulting his posts is a bigger problem than the rep system. I wouldn't call any of Cicero's posts unintelligent at all, I have disagreed with them several times but they always convey his opinion and that shows intelligence.

[Ryhanna]

Nope.

At the end of the day, the rep system is just one small feature on this website. People make such a big deal over rep, when it doesn't even really require anyones attention. It's just a fun feature to help provide feedback on your posts. Sure, people sometimes neg rep for silly things, but who cares? Does it really affect you to the point where we should demand it be removed? That's almost as silly as the people who neg rep for silly reasons. :P

I don't think it should be removed, but if it were removed I would like it to be replaced with a 'like' system. I'm a part of other forums that use such a system, and, like rep, it shows that other users appreciate what you post, but without the option to be 'negative.'

I love how someone neg repped me for this post.

EDIT: I mean, I'm not complaining about being negged. It's just funny, hypocritical even, that people are complaining about the rep system being abused and people neg repping because they 'disagree' with another members post, and that is the exact reason cited for my post being negged. And, without naming names, the person who negged me is someone who has complained about the system being abused. Like, wot?

[Lights]

So what about those people who have 500+ rep, or even 200+ rep power? You're accusing everyone who has high rep of somehow cheating the system.

Why have you totally twisted my words? I didn't accuse everyone, I accused you. This is something I've seen you do a number of times before and it's not right.

[Cicero]

Why have you totally twisted my words? I didn't accuse everyone, I accused you. This is something I've seen you do a number of times before and it's not right.

How have you seen me farm rep? You said that I can't have 584 rep without rep farming.

[Lights]

How have you seen me farm rep? You said that I can't have 584 rep without rep farming.

That's you dodging my question. Yes, my claim is an assumption which I cannot physically prove, but you have tried to spread a concern I raised with you onto everyone else, as if trying to share the pain. My experiences, and it would seem some other people's experiences too, with you as well as reading your posts on threads have all led me to assume what I have. I might well be wrong, and I apologise if I am, but this all seems pretty suspect from you. It's like it's a competition to see who can get the highest rep power or something.

[Cicero]

That's you dodging my question. Yes, my claim is an assumption which I cannot physically prove, but you have tried to spread a concern I raised with you onto everyone else, as if trying to share the pain. My experiences, and it would seem some other people's experiences too, with you as well as reading your posts on threads have all led me to assume what I have. I might well be wrong, and I apologise if I am, but this all seems pretty suspect from you. It's like it's a competition to see who can get the highest rep power or something.

So threads and posts I have made make you assume I farm rep? Interesting. Wanna provide some of these posts and threads?

[StoppingTime]

Many people rep me because they agree with me and I stand up for what I believe in instead of following the herd. I stand up for many things that aren't all that popular on here. But I have made many quality posts that do in fact go unrecognized.

I'm not really sure why you think you (or anyone who thinks like this) is special. You don't deserve any more or less "recognition" just because of this.

Well I don't like getting neg rep, especially when I get neg repped on a post that expresses my religious views, which seems to be quiet popular on here. You have no proof what so ever that feeds your claim that I'm a rep farmer.

People neg rep others because they don't agree with their views. I've done it in the past, hell, basically every member has, and I bet you have too. Once again, you're not better than anyone else here - nobody is better than anyone. And all rep is doing is instilling this false sense of power and "higher class" and that's plain sad.


I'm not basically saying 'I like rep, I get rep for nothing, if it goes no one will like me'. What I am saying is "I enjoy getting rep on posts I make, because it makes me feel like someone has recognized the hardwork I put into my posts", sure people can just say a simple thank you, but that doesn't happen as much as people like to think it does.

But it's also used inappropriately, and has many, many more cons than pros. If someone likes your post so much, they'll leave a "that was a great post" note on your VM wall in re of the rep system. And, there's no points, so no competition that way.

I only neg rep what other would neg rep me for.

That's like saying, "I only punched him because that's what the other guy did." Just because others do something doesn't mean you (or anyone) should too.


I've been neg repped for the stupidest shit ever, like one that was like "I disagree, speedos are just like any other swimming trunks" when the post I had posted said "I think people should only wear speedos if they have the right body",

So has everyone. That's why it's a flawed system on VT.


I'll also rep people just for saying what they believe in (which I know wouldn't be to popular), ill rep someone just to get them out of red (some random person), there's also a nice amount of reps where I don't say a single thing.

This is another flaw. Randomly repping others defeats the entire purpose. You should earn it.


Really? Hmmm, this is a genuine shock. I guess this community isn't all that different from the bullies at school. Perhaps I am in the wrong community, cause I thought this was an "accepting" and "kind" community, but thanks for proving that notion wrong.

Just because someone leaves you an "I disagree" or "your views are stupid" rep doesn't make us, as a site, any better or worse. It's makes that individual immature. But honestly dude, it's a forum. I think it's just best if you, and everyone, would simply ignore those comments. Why bother with them at all?


Maybe having high rep allows me to say what I want without having to fear going into the red from bullies like you.

What if you go in the red? Who gives a fuck? If your "different" and you are dedicated to them, you shouldn't care what other people think of them. But clearly you do, or otherwise you wouldn't have said that.

I'd say you and others bashing Cicero and insulting his posts is a bigger problem than the rep system. I wouldn't call any of Cicero's posts unintelligent at all, I have disagreed with them several times but they always convey his opinion and that shows intelligence.

This. PLEASE stop with the negative comments directed towards anyone now.

[Origami]

Voting yes.

The reputation system is nothing short of a contest for a number these days. Once upon a time it actually reflected who had quality posts to an extent. Now any douche can get a decent amount of rep without any real effort or quality posts.

With numbers nearly as high as 1000, any member can literally create or destroy a newer members rep. Even I can give someone an instant +or- 3 which actually took a minute to do when I joined. I get repped and jump up 10-11 every time nowadays which is ridiculously inflated and pointless. I get more rep these days for making a sig than I did for making genuine, helpful posts before.

[DerBear]

I honestly have to say, by looking at this entire thread and what its turned into is clearly people have had a wrong idea what the rep system is about.

Rep is and always was a system where users could comment and give feedback to other members and agree or disagree with members. It probably worked to a large extent back when this site was smaller and getting a rep power of 20 was a challenge.

Now its become a system to bully, upset, and basically undermine other members. Its become a system where people think having a high rep is something great and having a red rep means you're an unworthy member.

Everyone on Virtual Teen is treated equally whether you have -500 rep or 500+ rep. You're tread equally in the eyes of Staff and other members. Anyone who thinks rep is something other than that cares too much about a small tool on a site.

Rep probably did mean something once upon a time on this site. However this reason become dark and splattered with mud until the true essence of what rep was has become extinguished.

[Cicero]

I'm not really sure why you think you (or anyone who thinks like this) is special. You don't deserve any more or less "recognition" just because of this.


People neg rep others because they don't agree with their views. I've done it in the past, hell, basically every member has, and I bet you have too. Once again, you're not better than anyone else here - nobody is better than anyone. And all rep is doing is instilling this false sense of power and "higher class" and that's plain sad.



But it's also used inappropriately, and has many, many more cons than pros. If someone likes your post so much, they'll leave a "that was a great post" note on your VM wall in re of the rep system. And, there's no points, so no competition that way.



That's like saying, "I only punched him because that's what the other guy did." Just because others do something doesn't mean you (or anyone) should too.



So has everyone. That's why it's a flawed system on VT.



This is another flaw. Randomly repping others defeats the entire purpose. You should earn it.




Just because someone leaves you an "I disagree" or "your views are stupid" rep doesn't make us, as a site, any better or worse. It's makes that individual immature. But honestly dude, it's a forum. I think it's just best if you, and everyone, would simply ignore those comments. Why bother with them at all?



What if you go in the red? Who gives a fuck? If your "different" and you are dedicated to them, you shouldn't care what other people think of them. But clearly you do, or otherwise you wouldn't have said that.



This. PLEASE stop with the negative comments directed towards anyone now.

Well I onl rep people if I agree or find it a good post, but I try to rep those who are deep in red.

Let me rephrase what I meant, I use the neg reps I get as examples.

[workingatperfect]

If it was possible, the "thanks" could be tallied so that only the user receiving them could see it. No need for it to be a public thing, because that's where the problem with farming comes in. Attaching names to the thanks may or may not even be important. Just as long as everyone only gets one opportunity to give thanks per post.

That's exactly what I said a couple pages ago. I think it's a perfect compromise, still getting thanks, but eliminates rep farming. It shouldn't even be that hard to do, just take the little counter off our posts.

[Scarface]

I don't want this site turning out like facebook or twitter or some social network. I think that looks so shitty. I dont care if someone says that this site isn't so modernized, if you want more modern, find some place else to be modern because I thought this site was for advice and help. Yeah there are other sections to this forum besides help, but I dont exactly agree with all of those in existence, but its not about me, its about the community and passing along the message intended for this site.

New members that come to this site (usually) will have the intentions of finding the help or contributing the way they should be. This is a site for young adults and to be honest, you're not at home ad you're not at school, you shouldnt be trying to impress people, because whats the point? Youre on an internet forum. When you shut your computer down or press that little red ex, this sites gone to you, and you may never see these people? So why try to bog people down and make people feel like shit like youre at school with some petty comment and a red box, when this site is made to improve people's mental well being, not make things even worse. Makes people think that there's even more hierarchy than there already is with posts, but that's a completely different discussion.

The reputation system is so whacked out because of people wanting to have the biggest rep and its sick to say it almost looks like a competition and to be honest, I don't see the kind of quality posts i used to see where people would rep. People are asking for it in their signatures, its to that point, I get PM's everyday and when i look, it disgusts me how low people stoop to when it comes to something as simple as a red block comment. Or they're gonna simply post a snarky comment or throw in a picture of some meme and get 20 blocks, but yet when someone posts something meaningful or straight from the heart they get nothing? How does that strike this system as fair? And I'll bet any money that if I went through the negative reputation log for given reps, it'd be one long night typing up infractions.

Why not do the right thing for someone and not expect anything back? Post something quality because its the right thing to do. Post quality because you enjoy the discussion. Peoples feelings aren't some kind of game, and the comments people post, are downright shady. If all you come to this site to do is gain reputation so you can be a "somebody" well you not only got the wrong message, but you better consider your priorities in life.

Let's keep this site simple and let the true spirit and ability of people's good will do the rest. Dont try to taint or complicate a site thats done so much good for so long.

[Apollo.]

I don't want this site turning out like facebook or twitter or some social network. I think that looks so shitty. I dont care if someone says that this site isn't so modernized, if you want more modern, find some place else to be modern because I thought this site was for advice and help. Yeah there are other sections to this forum besides help, but I dont exactly agree with all of those in existence, but its not about me, its about the community and passing along the message intended for this site.

New members that come to this site (usually) will have the intentions of finding the help or contributing the way they should be. This is a site for young adults and to be honest, you're not at home ad you're not at school, you shouldnt be trying to impress people, because whats the point? Youre on an internet forum. When you shut your computer down or press that little red ex, this sites gone to you, and you may never see these people? So why try to bog people down and make people feel like shit like youre at school with some petty comment and a red box, when this site is made to improve people's mental well being, not make things even worse. Makes people think that there's even more hierarchy than there already is with posts, but that's a completely different discussion.

The reputation system is so whacked out because of people wanting to have the biggest rep and its sick to say it almost looks like a competition and to be honest, I don't see the kind of quality posts i used to see where people would rep. People are asking for it in their signatures, its to that point, I get PM's everyday and when i look, it disgusts me how low people stoop to when it comes to something as simple as a red block comment. Or they're gonna simply post a snarky comment or throw in a picture of some meme and get 20 blocks, but yet when someone posts something meaningful or straight from the heart they get nothing? How does that strike this system as fair? And I'll bet any money that if I went through the negative reputation log for given reps, it'd be one long night typing up infractions.

Why not do the right thing for someone and not expect anything back? Post something quality because its the right thing to do. Post quality because you enjoy the discussion. Peoples feelings aren't some kind of game, and the comments people post, are downright shady. If all you come to this site to do is gain reputation so you can be a "somebody" well you not only got the wrong message, but you better consider your priorities in life.

Let's keep this site simple and let the true spirit and ability of people's good will do the rest. Dont try to taint or complicate a site thats done so much good for so long.

This is without a doubt the best post I've seen on VT since I joied some 3 years ago! VT has always been a site that helps people over anything else and shpould always stay that way.

[Southside]

oh damn votes are even
I think the neg rep system should be removed but users should still be able to receive ++ rep when they deserve it most :)
the neg reps are what are over abused :(


Yeah I have negative rep off of something I said(Nothing Major, People just cant take jokes). The neg rep SHOULD be removed, should only highlight the good things.

I don't want this site turning out like facebook or twitter or some social network. I think that looks so shitty. I dont care if someone says that this site isn't so modernized, if you want more modern, find some place else to be modern because I thought this site was for advice and help. Yeah there are other sections to this forum besides help, but I dont exactly agree with all of those in existence, but its not about me, its about the community and passing along the message intended for this site.

New members that come to this site (usually) will have the intentions of finding the help or contributing the way they should be. This is a site for young adults and to be honest, you're not at home ad you're not at school, you shouldnt be trying to impress people, because whats the point? Youre on an internet forum. When you shut your computer down or press that little red ex, this sites gone to you, and you may never see these people? So why try to bog people down and make people feel like shit like youre at school with some petty comment and a red box, when this site is made to improve people's mental well being, not make things even worse. Makes people think that there's even more hierarchy than there already is with posts, but that's a completely different discussion.

The reputation system is so whacked out because of people wanting to have the biggest rep and its sick to say it almost looks like a competition and to be honest, I don't see the kind of quality posts i used to see where people would rep. People are asking for it in their signatures, its to that point, I get PM's everyday and when i look, it disgusts me how low people stoop to when it comes to something as simple as a red block comment. Or they're gonna simply post a snarky comment or throw in a picture of some meme and get 20 blocks, but yet when someone posts something meaningful or straight from the heart they get nothing? How does that strike this system as fair? And I'll bet any money that if I went through the negative reputation log for given reps, it'd be one long night typing up infractions.

Why not do the right thing for someone and not expect anything back? Post something quality because its the right thing to do. Post quality because you enjoy the discussion. Peoples feelings aren't some kind of game, and the comments people post, are downright shady. If all you come to this site to do is gain reputation so you can be a "somebody" well you not only got the wrong message, but you better consider your priorities in life.

Let's keep this site simple and let the true spirit and ability of people's good will do the rest. Dont try to taint or complicate a site thats done so much good for so long.

So you dont want to have a decent looking website? I love the help this website gives, from puberty, to self harm,depression,school its all great. Its just a few things that the VT members have been suggesting for years now(I know Im a new member but I've been on this site since atleast 2010) that the Admins & Mods seem to brush off.


-merged double post. -Emerald Dream

[Apollo.]

So you dont want to have a decent looking website?

It's not about a decent looking website, it's about a website that helps people! There's no need to be sarcastic and rude.

[Harry Smith]

So you dont want to have a decent looking website? I love the help this website gives, from puberty, to self harm,depression,school its all great. Its just a few things that the VT members have been suggesting for years now(I know Im a new member but I've been on this site since atleast 2010) that the Admins & Mods seem to brush off.

Reputation has been removed now from I what I can see, the whole point of scar face's post was that if you want a ' decent looking' popularity contest then hop onto facebook

[StoppingTime]

Yes, it's removed. This thread serves no purpose. :locked: