Three question:
- Why do we need the Like button?
I believe it would be some kind of “simpler” merit. Like posts you agree/like, think it’s funny, etc.. not necessarily HQ posts but not spam.
- What are differences between Like button and Merit button?
If 10 likes = 1 merit (I wouldn’t agree with giving merit for likes if they’re unlimited/free for everyone), then likes are a lighter kind of reward or way to show that you agree with the post.
- Is the Like Button easier to abuse than Merit Button?
If it’s unlimited or we give to everybody and they can turn into merit, then yes. Anything that can be used by multi-accounts can easily be abused.
Personally, the Like button purpose is the same as Merit button, but it is easier to abuse, so I don't support the idea.
Your proposal is very simple and effective.
I think some similar proposal must have been considered by Theymos, but not put in production in the end.
So you are not proposing a improvement, but only supporting a previously discarded inferior option.
Yeah, that was the first idea given by a few members before the merit system. There is no way theymos is going to add a like system when the merit system is already out.