The use of the links doesn't affect value and sometime may offer special price cuts, bonus and incentive... It's not all about being paid. The amount you would make on an affiliate link does not make you much and is more about helping other find what they may been searching for while get a percentage as advertising an ad. No one forces any link on anyone and if it is something you are looking for than you would click. if you weren't well than why would you click?
RE: Should We Encourage Affiliate Links On Steemit?