On Reputation Systems

The huge all-importance we place on money -- it is our contrived value system. Not only the value of a book or an apple, but of a person. Most realize its sheer imperfections, but settle for them and strive for this wealth anyway. "Reputation," the buzzworld of the burgeoning new systems, will be our next Money. Reputation measurements; tangible measurements... Karma points on Slashdot. Still imperfections, but a little more "holistic" a measurement than the old greenbacks for a person's worth. Karma whores will be the new resented upper-class, and the destitute will still exist. But it is easier (and better for the world) for a poor person to gain reputation -- simpy by being good to others!

A more direct return/consequence for each action; closer to the Eastern Karma, but not quite.

Now we see more doing good for personal attainment... -- but this is better than stepping on others for personal attainment. Dissolution of altruism?

Those people truly wishing to be altruistic will find a way to rebel against this system to do good without self gain.