The one thing I would point out - and appears to be a statement given without thought - steemit is not a free market if you can use a punitive tool. (down voting/flagging).
The whole principle of a free market is affirmative actions promoting good value.
Where is punitive action is an option- against others - a 'free market' ceases.
This is the way it is -fair enough - but I wish people would stop banding the term 'free market' around, as though its a fact.
If choosing to buy (upvtote) benefits both parties - its a free market. A voluntary transaction.
That dynamic cannot be said with down voting.
Ah ! - I've just let of some steam!