I too am in support of the reputation feature.

While it apparently caused problems for some folks in the beginning, those same types of problems (anonymous dings) can no longer happen. And those who don't like it can turn it off. So what's the fuss about?

Since the rep feature started I've actually gotten to know via email several FTers much better. The rep feature allows me to write a brief kudo or comment that I generally wouldn't otherwise post to a thread. As a result, they've led to some conversations with FTers that I've very much enjoyed and that otherwise wouldn't have happened. For me, and I suspect for the vast majority of FTers, the rep feature has enriched the community all the more.