| There seems to be some discontent towards big online auction sites like eBay ... several of you mentioned that eBay is, after all, a profit-seeking organization, so unless some unfair transactions are going to hurt its reputation and bottom line big time, it doesn't care.
On the other hand, online community sites like TM might exercise some sort of social power (see Tootsall's comment) to deter one member from trying to cheat another. What do you guys think about this "alternative" regulating mechanism? Have you ever observed it? How common and effective is it?
Also, what about price? Besides being able to sell or buy something, it is more likely to get a better deal (higher bid) on large auction sites than online community? Or is making a few extra bucks when selling or getting something cheaper not a top priority (when compared to making sure the person you are dealing with is legit)?
Any thoughts and comments?
Annie |