I'd argue though that those engaging in the pointless "battles" (we have the same at AA presently) deserve what they get; if their "friends" or "allies" want to play games with "helpful" votes, it's stupid, but not much stupider than the thread itself at that point.

On the other had, those discussing miles, status-- how to use them, get them, etc., etc.-- while there very well be stupid use of "helpful" in those discussions/threads for all the reason presented in this thread-- they should still be able to thank a member for their contribution/knowledge or simply be able to help others find "the good stuff" with such use of the feature.

Of course I say this as the author of some of the most historically helpful posts/threads on flyertalk-- so that may color my view slightly.