I actually really like the point system. Especially at a time when they were trying to grow the site. It indicates who's active and who's not. After level one, they are pretty meaningless, and you basically just have to fill out your profile to get to level 2. Its fun for those who enjoy it, and you can just ignore it otherwise.

To prevent spambots, scammers and riff-raff...

I like it, but I think if it doesn't interest you then ignore it?

It's a reward for being engaged in this community. Albeit, meaningless. At least it encourages members to involve themselves in the conversation.

I think the points put pressure on members to post, I don't always have a topic to post, or have a comment for others post's. I feel obligated to do so just to keep the points active.

I agree, I pretty much ignore the levels. Who cares.

You're not alone with that opinion. It's a bit silly.

I'm not into it, and mostly ignore it. I think something more along these lines would be more useful: New (<100 pts), Newbie (<1000 pts), Veteran (anything over 1000 pts), with a dynamic modifier (based on recent activity) showing active members, for example "Active Newbie."

It gets us talking and for those here to meet others, it helps them get to know each other. No prize for posting. No penalty for not. Do whichever you want.