These are the right places to debate cameras and get recommendations. The patrons at these forums are a wealth of knowledge. No offense to those who contributed here.

http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/
http://www.dpreview.com/forums/
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/

BTW.. if you think that 12 MPs on a point and shoot camera is going to make your pictures better than your buddy who “ONLY” has 8MP, think again.