"I speak to people on here that have the totally opposite view to me on some subjects, I appreciate they have a unique view, based on their own experience, and I respect their individual right to think differently from me."

I observe that the ability of the corrupt to seize Steem increases their power, and this creates enemies of those that oppose that mechanism. Conversely, your own intent to be of benefit to others creates friends of those with different views, because that increases your own understanding.

Effecting mechanisms that reduce incentive for the former behaviour, and increase incentive to be beneficial, will dramatically alter the dynamic and increase the benefits to society of our interactions. This principle conforms to reality, and how mutual aid increases the strength of all, and corruption and profiteering decreases the strength of the community. Natural forces will preferentially favor the latter over the former, and as development continues our circumstances are certain to improve.

If not Steem, then better mechanisms will eventuate, and probably soon.