Steemit is designed for whales. First of all a whale will want to be in a community with other whales. And vote each other up generously.
Steemit brings it to the peak with the flag option. Because whales can demonetize anyone with it who does not obey their wishes.
And so we see the sad insight in people that it is a waste of goodwill to offer valuable content here. It is not honored. Money honors money instead.