Finally, ramifications for ones behavior in this internet world of anonymity.

I think the current trend relates directly to every WoW player knowing that there is a major patch coming prior to release of Wrath of the Litch King that is making major changes to their talent trees. When people know that there game is making a major shift they tend to lay low and wait and see. Also with the xpac being only a month away I think many people are taking sometime to recharge batteries and get ready for the level grind.