I think there should be a review of someones account for after an extended period of time. If the person is making quality posts in a certain section and is just not getting merit I dont thinkt its really fair. If he is spamming that is one thing but if he is just forgotten about there should be some sort of QC process so good posters dont just quit.
Gah this really misinterprets what the forum seems to be looking for.
Should higher ranks be the only or primary motivation for being here? If so, then that's messed up.
I think users should generally be here for the discussion, and the merit system seems to slow the rate of rank advancement, and mainly stop users who are here just for that.