Do you think people's stupid answers would be a thing of the past if they lost points for every thumbs-down?

No, there will always be some bad answers.

And points are only awarded for thumbs-up on an answer if that answer is chosen as Best Answer.

For non-answers such as "idk" I find the report button works better than thumbs-down to express disapproval and keep the person from getting points for that answer.

I don't think it would deter users from giving ignorant and immature responses. In fact, I believe it would increase the number of those types of responses. Think of it this way. Users revel in the fact that they receive so many thumbs down. I have seen it when users give terrible answers (they know it) and they get tons of thumbs down. These users actually enjoy it. For them it is a badge of honor to get so many thumbs down, because they want other users to react negatively. It is a game and it is something they enjoy because they want to be recognized for intentionally annoying users. If users were to lose points for every thumb down it would most likely spike the amount of bad answers you see because users do not necessarily care about points. They would be more engrossed in doing what they do already but to a different magnitude. There are some users who would undoubtedly change, but I think most would not. To the users that annoy others, they want negative attention even if it costs them points. Besides do points really matter on this site? Most will tell you that it doesn't matter.

I think it's a good idea to do a points deduction system, as I feel that Y! Answers has been getting more and more unreliable to the point where I rarely use it anymore due to trolls, bigots, etc.

But, as with everything, there could be problems with it. A lot of instances, I see things getting a thumbs down, not because the information is inaccurate, but because the people simply don't LIKE the answer given, even if gives valid points and is backed with sources.

But I believe a deduction would aid to cut down on trolling, so I'd suggest giving it a shot!

In an appropriate international the place each and every physique grow to be uncomplicated and uncomplicated,then in line with danger,in spite of the undeniable fact that it no longer, so it may be unfair. individuals dont tick a placed up down through fact its "incorrect" They do it becase its relaxing. it could take a together as to compose a respond and one merits ones 2 factors despite the fact that if one dont gain the glittering prize of b/a.

Not many people even pay attention to points like myself, but if you log into a website specifically for asking/answering question that is what you would expect them to do all jokes aside. so maybe not reducing points as much but sending warnings and so on...

Nope, especially for the fact that not many people here care about points.

No because I usually get thumbs up for my stupid answers.

no