~snipped~
If we (I will use 'we' here because I'm a CM too and I actually feel that this is an extremely important discussion) start using Merits as criteria, people will do just the opposite - they won't post as a hobby/organically, but will start chasing merits and we'll have merit circles appearing - which will hinder the natural progression of lower ranked members.
Honestly, you took the word out of my mouth. No comment could've put it better than this did. I laugh whenever I see/read managers put merit earned ahead of every other consideration. This is because such attitude will endanger the process of quality posting. It will encourage subtle merit trading. I'm one who believe meriting posts is subjective and this highlights it more. Those who post like you do won't have enough merit as those who are intentional about posting to earn. Sadly, this set is likely to be selected ahead of you. It's the sad reality here.