From: Marc Marian <shogilist <at> SHOGI <dot> DE>
Date: 12 dec 2002
Subject: Ratings, Grades, Titles - don't forget to play

Dear all,

we are beginning to do the same mistake as in chess. We are discussing about
ratings, titels and rankings. It seems the only important question on the planet
is who is the best player.
To me, this is annoying.

We should all consider ELO as an interesting method to compare playing strength,
but its no religion at all. And it should only show us a trend, not the
up-to-date playing strength.
Same with grades: As you cannot lose a grade once you have it, you cannot
compare playing strength with it. Its honorable, but not important enough to be
discussed.
If someone means he is disadvantaged by his rating - just play another
tournament!


have fun
Marc