I disagree with this (tho I acknowledge the dissent points and I'm one of those who moans occasionally - with the corresponding downvote hit about unreasonable

I disagree with this (tho I acknowledge the dissent points and I'm one of those who moans occasionally - with the corresponding downvote hit about unreasonable downvoting). I've also never (yet) downvoted anybody despite severe provocation :) I think some limits on downvoting might be useful (some of which might already be in place, I can't remember). e.g. You can't downvote replies to your comment. (Already in place). A limit to downvotes to a particular comment. (I thought this was in place but can't find a reference) Time limit on downvotes. (I think this is already in place). X downvotes use up Y karma. I would also like a guideline that you should only upvote or downvote based on the quality of the comment rather than whether you don't like what you think of the commenter...