Merit system in my opinion was build as a barrier for new comers and gives an advantage to early adopters in terms of signature campaign.
It's purpose really effective to minimize shitposters?
Distribution of sMerit really given to deserving posts?
Early birds catch worms, Not just in this forum but in all aspect of life. If you are asking the effectiveness of merit system, In my opinion, it is indeed effective to minimize shitposters in this forum, Imagine sMerit as a payment for you for being a constructive poster. The distribution of sMerit depends on the one who has it, think of it as a money anyone can give to whoever they wanted but in the majority, they are giving sMerit to those who deserve it.