What the purpose of the forum ?
A place for discussion not a place for looking merit
If you just looking for the merit than you're not allow to be here.
Now that merit is a requirement to rank up, it is important. Different people are here for different reasons and we should not have an issue with it.
Ok, I'll bite. Why do you want to rank up?
What's the purpose of that? Ranks were made as an addition, something that most forums have to show that some users are more experienced and have been here for a long time. It of course adds some value to their posts, but like I said it's a secondary thing. The primary thing is always the content of your post, not your rank.
Now, since accounts have value and can be sold I'd assume it's that important reason you're talking about. Prove me wrong.