The alt coin bear market is taking its toll I'm sure; but I think your view of the down vote usage is much to optimistic. I really don't see a scenario where a majority of flagging is done in good faith and used for those milking bid bot rewards or shitposting. Even with a separate down vote pool, it will be still be whales silencing minnows. The power is in the hands of the STEEM holders and the STEEM holders (bid bot owners, whales, etc.,) will not complacently surrender their rewards. It is human nature to be greedy; any system which only works as intended by foregoing human nature is bound to fail.