Reddit launches

The world’s largest online discussion forum, Reddit, has unveiled a new Moderator Rewards Program that hopes to appease dissatisfied community members and alleviate the problem of undervalued moderators.

The Moderator Rewards Program (MRP) is meant to reward moderators for their dedication and contributions to Reddit’s communities. The MRP will come in the form of virtual currency, called Reddit Coins, which can be spent to vote up posts in Reddit’s open communities or to purchase premium features.

The program hopes to address the widespread dissatisfaction regarding the lack of recognition for moderators on the online platform and the lack of compensation they receive for their unpaid efforts moderating Reddit’s various communities.

Moderators have long been a necessary, yet often unrecognized, force powering the Reddit platform. In the past, moderators have raised their concerns regarding the lack of compensation they receive. In response to these complaints, Reddit has updated its policy to ensure that moderators get rewarded for their efforts.

The MRP is a landmark step not only for Reddit, but for the entire online community, as it demonstrates Reddit’s new willingness to reward moderators for their hard work.

While the virtual currency system may seem like a great way to compensate moderators, communities have expressed concern over the impact the program could have on Reddit’s existing systems. Furthermore, Reddit’s CEO, Steve Huffman, has noted that the virtual currency system may not be universally accepted, and could face challenges from some of Reddit’s more controversial communities.

Nonetheless, this move by Reddit marks a shift in its commitment to moderators and should be applauded. In paying greater attention to the contributions of its moderators, Reddit can bring about broader positive change to its communities. As the Reddit team has noted, “Moderators are the lifeblood of Reddit, and it’s important that we recognize and reward them for their important work.”