I recognize the first 17 names. #18 posts on Mining/Hardware, and indeed, I don't go there.
Around Rank 100, I still recognize most of the names.
From (about) Rank 400 downwards, I recognize less than half the names.

I'd say the fastest way up this list is gaining trust, high Activity is only for people who have been here longest.

For consideration:
If you're counting the initial (airdropped) Merit, which was based on Activity, aren't you double counting Activity?