I'm not really a fan of the thumbs up, thumbs down feature (mostly just the thumbs down). I think it might end up alienating certain posters that do not get it as quickly as others, and in turn, might end up damaging their confidence in the future. I'm not a fan of hurt feelings and most of my friends in Portland would AGREE. I do like the badges, though. Positive reinforcement is fine with me.
P.S. If you would kindly thumbs up my post, it would really make my night. If not, well, you are just not a very nice person.