observation on user reputations

[MTK]

I'm noticing more and more that people seem to be giving each other negative rep points over a simple difference of opinion.

I think that really goes against the purpose of the reputation system.

I'm not going to make any hard rules as to how people should give out rep points, but to me rep points should only be given out to reward a person for an outstanding contribution or to take away points for a really horrible post that lacks substance. To give out negative points over a difference of opinion is pretty childish if you ask me.

Anyone have any thoughts on this? Should we consider doing away with the rep system?