Seems like I cannot even merit and since I am only junior member the statement (rich2rich poor2poor) is total true.
It is also correct that there are too many spam bots but I think the new merit system could potentially discourage new members since gaining merit for them will be even here if your account is unknown.
Also since there is already a list of users that are abusing the system, this could in reality just create another big black market for merit points.
Reminds me a little bit of the prohibition times.

Just my 2 cent.