I think this is a good idea.  I personally feel uncomfortable giving other writers a numerical score.  I'm new to the forum so I never had to do this, but I think I would feel pressured to give someone a good score if he or she had previously given me a high rating. 

A rating system is useful for finished products, when you are buying things and your money is on the line.  But for a writing critique I just don't find it that useful.  I don't want to discourage anyone by giving a low rating OR cheapen the high rating for the writers who really are doing an amazing job. 

If a rating system is necessary, I would prefer that it be a.) anonymous and b.) scale from 1-10.  I think it would be much more useful to the writer if it were broken down into categories (such as characterization, style, structure, plot.)  That way writers can clearly identify their strengths and weaknesses.

While I think the idea of reviews not being rated in very intelligent, I also would like to see replies to reviews unrated since the wording of the reply normally indicates how it was accepted. Perhaps a minimum word count of about 25 as well so the reviewer can get a feel for the kind of review are accepable to a particular writer. Personally I don't like reviews that just say nice things (unless the piece is genuinely fantastic, which I doubt mine ever are) --- that tells me nothing.  Even if a reviewer gives me a bad review because I gave them one, I learn something (like steer clear in future). I always try to give honest reviews with the aim to help, not discourage, but that's not always appreciated. I never give nice reviews without reading the piece properly, just to get the points (except, maybe) if I suspect someone is doing that to me). Also the chance to respond to a reply on my reviews would be helpful in avoiding bad feeling. I note that unless someone posts on the forum or puts a link on their profile it is not possible to send them e-mail.

Hey all how's it hanging?

Well....and I, as newbie know my thoughts don't mean diddley squot but it was kinda meaningless, the rating.
I would like to add that Corra's idea has merit, I know opinions are subjective but really....it's all we have to offer.
I do have difficulty being totally honest in my reviewing, I know 'Ya big woos.' I hear you shouting, so some sort of tick box (oh winceing is going on as you read, I can hear it.) system would be better than none at all. A written critique will always be the best tool we have,,,, but um you Know what I mean?

Cheer me dears


D A Reynolds

It is so relaxing to not have to be concerned about numbers when writing and reviewing.  Thought I'd just post my thoughts on the subject  after quite a long while of the change.  I feel free now to say what I please, and feel, and think about the work I am reviewing without having to quantify it.  That is surely what separates writing from accounting. 

Please let us not go back to the numbers.

I never did get to see the Bee Gee's in concert. Dam!