I'm not in favour of this feature either. It clutters the reply header without adding value. I prefer to visit a monk's home node to find out more about them, at least there I can see other things like their number of write ups and how long they've been here etc.

I agree that publicising the levels to this extent is kind of dehumanizing, like being forced to wear an armband. No doubt I could choose not to see what armbands others are wearing, but would I be able prevent others from seeing what armband I am wearing?

Also, it takes time for a (signed-up) troll to acquire his negative karma, and having a troll armband is likely to encourage the troll to 'work' for his armband - which really defeats the point of this feature.