Do you rate discussions even if you don't respond to them?

Yes, actually I do. If I find a discussion that is well written I will rate it even though I may not have anything to add as a response. Just because something is interesting doesn't always mean I ave something to say about it. I figure a a + rating at least shows I appreciated it.

If I rate without responding, usually it is because I go into a topic and someone, or several people, have already said what I would have responded with. I usually read the responses since I am already there. I rate positive unless the person is trying to start some sort of argument or is behaving in an unneeded negative way.

if the discussions caught my interest and i don't have idea to share with it instead of posting my comments i will rate only the discussions. all of my discussions comments i rate them all positive of course. by this way i can help to ratings of the user.

hi anaknitatay i try to rate discussion if it is really interesting. but i also try to respond to it also. giving a poster for his good discussion will somehow help him. especially if he is aiming for the blue star ;-) take care