I for one don't see any reason for making a change to the system without it being driven by some form of elitist 'sensablility'. The old timers want to stay on top and be extra special like they used to be. That might be human nature, but it doesn't make it the right decision.

I think this suggestion simply underlines that.

Many certainly deserve it. But changing the fundamentals of the system is also a bad idea, IMHO. I've heard some suggestions about branching based on community vs. expertise for example. This is something that's not reflected in the current system and many see it as a Good Thing.

I'm usually one who votes for change. In this case I don't see a compelling argument to alter a system that clearly works in building this community. It Ain't Broke... Leave it alone.