<p>I almost never vote down a question that is asked in good conscience to expand knowledge.  </p>

<p>That being said, if a question is up-voted excessively, a down-vote can be used to offset.  I don't think that should discourage new user.  Especially if you follow the golden rule of down-voting: <em>always leave a comment so people understand how they can improve</em>.  And equally important: if the OP <em>does</em> improve the question following your comment, switch over to an up-vote to reward the good behavior.</p>
