Google's algorithm(s) differ from Ask and all the others in significant ways. One is in the high value the Big G places on anchor text in links. Links between pages of the same site, and when inbound from other sites.

Now you know why you perceive a "penalty" when it's just how they do what they do. By the way, if you want to spend the time to read their various patent explanations, you'd already know this.

If a search engine had to explain itself to all site owners/webmasters, that's all it would be doing! Get a grip. Just make the recommended changes in this thread and see for yourself how much more improved your rankings will be. I promise!

--Greg "Mr Goodhelp"