It seems that tribal instincts are deeply embedded in human psyche. We all tend to be drawn into groups, at an instinctual level. Steemit merely reflects what happens in real life.
Monetary incentives and opportunities are not evenly distributed in the real world, nor are they in Steemit.
If Steemit develops along the lines of the outside world, we will see an original anarchical and somewhat equalitarian idea turn into an ecosystem with spheres of influence resembling tribes and hordes.
It is actually a very interesting social experiment, and keeping a certain detachment while observing its evolution makes it fun.