Intresting how this place has evolved over the years. It truly is a good resource for people to learn, tutor and teach. The general discussions are a welcome break for a lot of people that are working hard to promote their professional and educational lives.
By comparison to the great help that comes out of this place, I feel that the reputation aspect is not much more than just a fun little addition.
We all have people that we appreciate and respect here... and they certainly do not need little green dots to earn my admiration.
Reputation is not something I would stress over.