Merit simply completely closed the entrance to the beautiful world of crypto-currencies for the novice generation. And in no way solves the problems for which it was introduced! The administration should review the main objectives of Meritt and come up with something better if they have the support of the entire forum, at least those who are unhappy with this development!
Merit system is not going to affect in any way the new members from posting here or share information here. The information here is available to all the members and senior rank members do not get any privilege for this.
If your primary aim is to get knowledge about bitcoins and other crypto ( which is the primary objective of the forum ) , you should not have any issue with the merit system. Merit system has been introduced just to encourage quality posting. There is no privilege for them except getting a higher rank which just gives more credibility to the user.