I like the metaphor. Although i believe there is a great deal of reason to some of the fears expressed the best point i think you make is that steem itself is just secondary. things like reddit gold and likes on facebook make a very similar system that has absolutely no real value to the user. these platforms still flourish because people are always looking to belong and be validated. i think the marriage of the written and video posts on this site will be its key. bringing the diversity of those who do not want to be in front of a camera but still have a voice with the usually large personalities of those who love their camera time will help expand this community faster and larger than all the others. good read good attitude.