It's an old, tired example, but using two cows to demonstrate how a type of society/government/economic model works is surprisingly effective, if a bit simplistic.
As difficult as it is to describe how Steemit works to the uninitiated, perhaps an uncomplicated single-sentence response might be a good way to start. Let's brainstorm!
Here are a few examples, with the help of Notre Dame Economics.
SOCIALISM: You have two cows. The state takes one and gives it to someone else.
COMMUNISM: You have two cows. The State takes both of them and gives you the milk.
CAPITALISM: You have two cows. You sell one and buy a bull.
REPRESENTATIVE DEMOCRACY: You have two cows. Your neighbors pick someone to decide who gets the milk.
AMERICAN DEMOCRACY: The government promises to give you two cows if you vote for it. After the election, the president is impeached for speculating in cow futures. The press dubs the affair "Cowgate".
STEEMIT: ????
Your turn... How would you describe the steemit economy with just two cows?