Someone's username doesn't make them worth listening to (although something cool like 'CheeseLord' will certainly make people notice you. :) but the reputation behind it does. And many of the higher-level people around here are at that level because they've posted a lot of good stuff, and have invested a good deal of time in this site. We respect their input and opinions because they've shared their knowledge and insight with us, and we've found it useful. And we're pretty sure that what they've just posted is going to be useful as well. As far as the new monks who don't really care and just ++ the saints, well... what can you do? I guess that's why you don't get as many votes when you start out.

A lot of the things you point out are present in any society - and as you've noted, there are real people behind each username here. It makes sense that the issues (I don't believe these to be 'problems') that are present in human societies are present here as well. A leader's views are usually respected, unless they are met with good arguments as to their flaws. That does not preclude listening to the views of the non-leaders, however. But, because of their position, they need to be more careful in what they say should they want their opinions heard. Likewise, leaders need to be careful in what they say, lest they offend too many or too much and lose their ability to have their opinions considered.

At least, that's my view of things. *shrug*

His Royal Cheeziness