I have thought for some time that votes should come in two flavors. X if you make a comment, X/10 if you don't. Drive-by voting is of little value, and for abusive posts that need downvoting we have flagging to accomplish quick removal. Giving more weight to people who write a reply would encourage more conversation.
Of course, then there is a question of whether it would encourage more thoughtful comments or not, and I cannot answer that.
Of course, then there is a question of whether it would encourage more thoughtful comments or not, and I cannot answer that.