There's a perception that downvoting is "censorship". But, it's not. At least not anymore than "upvoting" is censorship.
I try to avoid downvoting just because I disagree with something. I do think Steemit should be a "big tent". But I don't hesitate to downvote content that I think decreases Steem's value. Negativity, whining and pouting are sure to get my downvote.
Good points. Perhaps my post comes across as too strongly promoting downvoting. You say it better:
To me this would include lowering Steem's value financially as well as in how it affects users (emotions etc).
I guess you have never seen a whale make a downvote bot to drive someone's posts to be hidden.