Well this thread took on a varied and interesting theme!

I have read lots of comments about the ratings system being unfair,
I have red supportive comments from admins about sorting out mis-use of the ratings system.
I have read comments concerning no constructive advice given when a no-5 rating is given.
I have NOT read any comment proving the rating system works as intended.

Therefore why not change it?

The current system does not sit well with Renderosity as a community.
Many are embarrassed to give constructive feedback in case it is taken the wrong way and causes upset. Visible ratings would make this even worse.
Receiving a rating other than a 5 (or a 0) can cause upset and distress because in some ways it can be taken as a throw away insult on something very personal to that artist.
Visible ratings may help reduce misuse but the fundamental system is flawed for a community such as Renderosity.
Constructive advice can be given whether a ratings system exists or not.

Change the system to Commendations. The commenter gives a commendation if, in their opinion, the art deserves it. If they wish to leave constructive advice they can, a ratings system is not required for that.
Many artists on Rendo already use the ratings system in this way. 5 or 0 only. Which kind of makes a mockery of the whole system anyway. It also amplifies the impact of a non-5 rating.

I think the Renderosity community as a whole is fantastic. The artists are friendly and supportive. There is "good" art and there is "bad" art but consistently I see support, friendship and a desire to learn and improve from so many artists. However, Rendo also accommodates the artist who is happy to just dabble, who has no desire to improve, but who see art as fun and who just enjoy the Rendo community.

How long do we have to read threads like this one complaining about the ratings system? If something doesn't work why not change it.