Eh, no need for rampant topic merging, I should think, especially as I look at this, I see a very key distinction--the Shaod--which isn't really addressed in the other topic, trendkill.
I don't have any answer for you, DariusJenai. That would require knowing what sort of mechanism causes the Shaod. Some have theorized that it's similar to Snapping in some regard, but as far as I know, that's as far as the theories go. Brandon's really quiet on divulging information about Elantris. Way of Kings gave us extra information, but there are a lot of questions that still need answering.
I'd sure like to know what causes the Shaod...