For me, one of the main advantages of merit system is that it serves not only as a encouragement, but also as an impulse for further development. This system really forces participants to try harder and do more. Therefore, a feeling of satisfaction from a well-deserved merit is a good incentive, because you`ll want to feel it again and again. Thus a new driving force is emerging, pushing to write better posts and make contributions to the forum. Therefore, I regard unlike many other users the merit system primarily as a motivation, and not as an obstacle.