Not really. I have rep and wouldn't say I was popular People don't give you rep just because they like you, it's because they like what you've done or said. For example, if you post a particularly helpful reply to a topic, or you create a decent guide, people may rep you to say thanks. Or maybe they just agree with what you've said in the debating forum and want to give you a nod of appreciation. That kind of thing
I'm hughly popular and have low rep No e-love for me! </3 Someone widen the door for my big head please? Thanks B)
-rep can b given when someone does something you dislike, such as being rude or offensive. It shouldn't be given based on whether or not you personally agree with someone's opnions/personality/attitudes/etc. For example, you could/should +rep Tricia for helping you, and -rep SoC for being a giant do-uche. ...I kid, you could -rep someone if they opsted an offensive message, did something mean, etc.
You could easily get +rep by posting a guide that is good, and everyone needs. Or by helping around when you can ^^