Now this comment is an excellent example of how *interpretation* of the 'judges' remarks can render a totally opposite visual rating while agreeing or disagreeing with the point. Are you giving thumbs up to their view, or thumbs up (or down) to the matter they are commenting on? Rue the day our justice system works like this.

I agree with aja's observation, so do I now give it a star because I agree, or an 'unhappy face' (God this is so childish) because I agree? (My conflict as written is intentional)

The attempt to gauge 'suitability' in reference to the point is not only skewed, it can be entirely opposite of what's intended.  I wish to agree with aja's point, so which way do I indicate that?

I blame social media for dumbing down the level of discourse by the attempt to express oneself in silly little bytes or emojis.

The Financial Times, New York Times, Economist or even WSJ this isn't.

On the upside, the *script* that runs the forum software is written far better than before.