Hmm, how would it affect threads though? I mean, currently a really helpful post in the middle of a 20-30 page thread would still mainly be read by people who either:

a. Read the thread up to that post
b. Google a search term which appears on that post
c. Follow a link somewhere pointing to that post

Would "staring" a post have the same effect as replying to the thread, show how many people star-ed a post in the thread listings, or what other kind of effect would it have?

Seamoby wrote:

I've found that systems like this on forums have a tendency to be based on personalities and cliquishness and not necessarily on a post's merits.  If you want to show appreciation for someone's helpful post, you can just say "+1", or "I agree".

While I agree with the first part of what you said, I would really hate to see people making simple "+1" or "I agree" posts. Some of the threads in here can get fairly lengthy as it is, so having a lot of flooding comments that add nothing to the thread but an "I agree with X" would be rather obnoxious.

I agree, but please never consider a "-1" option. That will only lead to ass kissing and lazy or close minded people not commenting on it. Just look at places like thestudentroom.co.uk and look at any religion or society related threads...

Snort.  Oops, excuse me, I'm not contributing much to this thread.