Hi David! It's good to see some healthy debates going on! i'd like to throw my two cents in to the ring. Whilst I do appreciate and support Jerry, I would not describe myself as a sycophant!

What I would like to say is that I wouldn't have come to Steemit if it weren't for Jerry's promotions of Steemit (yes and himself) .. I personally powered up around $10,000 of Steem and also brought in at least 20 new people who also powered up a total of around $20,000 more. What I'm saying is that whilst we pick apart and try to find the truth and real intentions behind Jerry's motivations, that we should keep a level head. For example, Jerry delegated me 1,000 Steem a month ago to help me support the @ecotrain passengers. This was a very kind gesture that doesn't really serve himself at all. Although I have been upvoting most of his posts, there was no suggestion or any kind of requirement to do so.

We all know Jerry is a businessman, and a strong marketer. Whilst you may not agree with some of his choices and tactics, I think it's fair to say that overall Jerry has had a positive impact on the community and the ecosystem and in many ways. If he went too far, then I have a feeling he will take criticism and learn from it, because it is my belief that whilst Jerry does look out for himself very well, he also does have an altruistic nature and good heart.

What i have learned from this is the weakness of auto voting! As a result of this whole fiasco I have turned mine off so i can upvote those posts i really do support.

hope that helps!