I absolutely have the same problem, and you do not really have to be an expert to encouter this. Personally I do not find much appeal in taking part in this "r

I absolutely have the same problem, and you do not really have to be an expert to encouter this. Personally I do not find much appeal in taking part in this "race" you have mentioned - even if the opportunity cost is a big fat number of upvotes. On the other hand, I often don't feel like cooking up an elaborate answer in relatively obscure topic only to receive few upvotes. Both cases seem to demonstrate a downside of SO's reputation system, for it might rather easily become a purpose in itself, sucking up the pleasure of sharing knowledge with others.