I hope it does not make me a lazy or irresponsible person if I admit I don't use the approval nodelet much other than occasionally voting on considerations. I mostly just go to the "Newest Nodes" page, so I guess this has less significance for my experience here than it might for others.

I think the community system, moderation, etc, is a good thing, but since the site already seems well run to me, I don't worry about it. Of course, I'm presuming that the more active moderators are not stressed out by it, and that if they were they'd speak up, as I'm sure there are people (eg, me) who'd be willing to contribute more that way if there is a perceived need for it.

later: Thanks for bringing this up, actually. It made me reconsider my laissez faire attitude a bit.