I try to be objective when giving away the sMerits I have earned. If someone has a different opinion it is obviously hard to reward them for their post. However, being proven wrong or being corrected by another user is usually informative and in a lot of cases merit worthy.
An example of me giving out merit for someone correcting/disagreeing with me
For your information, applying for a lower spot isn't something special or unusual. There are many people also doing it. I assume it is not the first time you saw a member applying for a lower rank spot. So, in my opinion, no need to give a special appreciation.
An example of me giving out merit for someone correcting/disagreeing with me
The dedication to apply for a lower spot impresses me, good luck 
What dedication?For your information, applying for a lower spot isn't something special or unusual. There are many people also doing it. I assume it is not the first time you saw a member applying for a lower rank spot. So, in my opinion, no need to give a special appreciation.