[ALR-bishop]

I think they did it because many buyers were reluctant to leave neutral or negative feedback for sellers, even if it was clearly warranted, for fear of retaliatory negative feedback, even if not warranted. In those days sellers often waited to give feedback until after the buyer left feedback, in effect holding the feedback as hostage.

As a buyer only I admit the system is now severely stacked against sellers and I know many good sellers who have stopped selling on ebay as a result.

As I stated before, I now give positive feedback as soon as I get the item. I never even look to see what if any feedback the seller leaves me