We put quite a bit of thought behind this issue.
Here's where we landed...
We wanted people to get the needed feedback without feeling it as a personal attack.
We also wanted people to be able to not recommend their crazy uncle's article, without the anxiety of generating friction.
And last, we feel that trolls like to be recognized. JoeSmo did not recommend your article. grants them some power, and that doesn't help you now does it.
Looking at the benefits and weaknesses we felt this was more conducive to a more enjoyable experience, and that's really our mission.
To create a more civil environment for everyone to share articles without all the stress, anxiety and divisiveness.