I have often come across genuine newbies who receive merits on their first post. That's observable mostly in the Bitcoin boards. And it's not uncommon that the person gets enough merits to rank up to Jr. Member if he just had enough activity points.

Bitcoin enthusiasts who have valid questions or concerns and begin meaningful discussions are often showered with merits. I think that's nice to see. People wrongly think merits are only given to those who solve problems, but bringing attention to certain issues can be equally merit-worthy.