I like the idea of an esteem score. It kind of gives the community an opportunity to vote for quality content creators, advocates, and helpers. And I believe it would encourage people to comment and really get to know the Steemit community...much like some of our witnesses do.
I do badges too - but I think we could definitely have both. The more I try to grow my Steemit rep score, the more I'm beginning to think it's my Steem age. I've been hearing the term "SteemElder" quite a bit lately. LOL