XP is a little like sitting exams - an indicator of something, but mostly an indicator of how good you are at playing the XP game or passing exams. Sure employers can use that as a indication of characteristics that may be of value to them, but the raw results don't mean so much - especially in the case of XP

In my view XP is an excellent mechanism for regulating the quality of posts and general behaviour at PerlMonks. It provides subtle but useful feedback that indicates what the PerlMonks community likes and doesn't like.

XP does not indicate anything about Perl expertise or general proramming ability, or even the ability to debate. It does indicate an ability to play the XP game and that may be related by second order effects to Perl expertise etc., but sure isn't what drives XP.

XP is only loosely coupled to node reputation and voting patterns by intent. If you play the XP game well you involve yourself in all aspects of the PerlMonks community. A key to XP is participation. The reward is increased Perl knowledge, a feeling of community, warm fuzzies and meeting interesting people.

XP isn't important for itself. The XP game may be important, but not for itself - it is an indicator of positive contribution to tyhe community. If participating in the community is seen as important then XP as an indicator of how well you play the XP game is a good indicator of that. All XP represents is some index of an individuals positive participation in the PerlMonks community.