Laugh to keep from crying :) ... Maybe you are too close to the situation.

As for the motivation I don't think it is a motivator, just the best way for any small account to build sp without having to mess around commenting etc too much. 5000 steps + level will get you about 5- 10 cent votes with 10 000 steps + level will be 10c + votes , exhange your points you get then you are talking a $1 vote about at least 2 a week... For a small account which has no intention to buy in ie myself if it was around back then I see it as a very good way to build your account.

I kinda don't like that word motivation it sounds a bit weak.