This post illustrates the one major flaw in the merit system - it has a commercial value. It really should be a means of recognition and guidance for posters. The commercial value means that some members are prostituting themselves to gain merit.

I don't understand how there can be a conflict of interest in awarding merits to merit sources. If you don't understand the function of a merit source, and how they work, then I created an article for my blog site.
https://talkmerit.com/the-source/index.php/articles/the-bitcoin-talk-merit-system