The "Like" button is a horrible idea. The whole thing is solution in search of a problem, and seems to be championed for no real reason by a few members. I have seen no good arguments for it, and a number of good arguments against it.

Along with anticipated problems, like manipulation of "like" counts by FTers accustomed to playing point maximization games and little cliques of the like minded, there will certainly be other, unanticipated problems.

As far as manipulating points/counts, the strange way the poll progressed has raised many eyebrows.

The disingenuous attempt at making the whole implementation less visible and less obviously what it is by relabeling the "Like" button a "Helpful" button to disguise a very unpopular concept is also disturbing.

I strongly encourage Talkboard to vote down this bad idea. We are not Facebook.