How & why?

yes!

I only give a thumbs down if the answer is mean-spirited, like if it's racist or insulting or 'bashing'. I see a lot of this in the political newsgroups. I would never give a thumbs-down just because I disagree with someone, but I see a lot of that.

I give a thumbs up if someone gives the answer I was going to give or (as often happens) if I read an answer BETTER than I was going to give.

Of my 'best answers' about half of them are decided by 'voters'. This is from people giving -me- thumbs-ups, so I figure I should show my gratitude by occasionally voting myself.

If you take the time to read the responses you will find that many are answered by 10 year olds and there comments show it.

Othertimes there is some real thought that goes into answering questions.

You have to sort through th Bu.. Sh.. to get a real feel for the questions and the answers alike.

Its the button next to the "report it". I do thumbs up when it makes me laugh

its part of the process. yahoo put it there to be used by us to have our say in addition to, or instead of making up our own answers.

why should we type something someone else has said perfectly?

i dont give a thumb down.

i give a thumb up its the response is funny or true.