I'm glad to see I am not alone in feeling a bit uncomfortable about this development. I too fear that the Endorsement mechanism will encourage badge-collecting and people issuing shotgun endorsements in the hope of getting lots back. I have received 'endorsements' from old school mates who I have not even seen for decades (honestly) as well as from people with whom I am in regular contact both professional and extra-curricular; there is actually an element of emotional blackmail in this: someone you meet regularly and respect has endorsed you - what will they think if you do not endorse them 'in return'?

In fact the more I think about this the more I consider it a bit of an infringement. I feel like there ought to be a bit of a dialogue first, as there is with the mutually agreed recommendations mechanism.