I agree! Just because something is "just for fun" doesn't mean it shouldn't be the best one can do!

I think the concept of fandom/fanfic is brilliant: the writers receive feedback without being ridiculed or losing hope by receiving a million and one rejection letters from agents/publishers, the readers get to read without having to buy the book or rush to the library. That's such a wonderful and creative idea. And then it gets destroyed because politics sneak into the entire thing.

I agree with you on the rating system. The number of stars a fic has attached means absolutely nothing to me for the reasons you stated.

I usually follow recs put up by people whose opinion I trust. Of course there are exceptions. Like last w/end when all I wanted was to vegetate and something to keep me occupied while being miserable, LOL. I doubt I'll repeat that mistake anytime soon. :)