Welcome back Illini!!
The "Unknown Quantities" is a reputation system that I just turned on. It is something we will try and if we decide it is not for us, it is one click to turn it off.
It allows members to give points to other users. The more points you have the more weight your vote counts for.
For instance.. I just clicked on Illini's post and gave him my vote for a great post. He now has 1 point.
Over time the points will build up based on great posts.
I encourage all members to vote for your favorite posts.. those posts that make you think, that help you in some way.
If someone makes you mad you can reversely give them negative points as well.
To give or take away a vote from someone just click on the "scales" icon on the right side of the dark blue area at the top of the post.
Start voting!
If anyone has futher questions just let me know