Hello I'm quite new here and haven't grasp the whole concept 100% yet. Reading this post gives me a clear idea that we are facing with dilemmas among members of this community either new members, minnows, senior members, including whales. The FLAG option here seems to be very vulnerable, destructive but can also be a very usefull tool . It will be good idea to regulate the use of this option by all members regardless of the status. For example, if someone wants to flag somebody as he clicks the flag option the system will automatically post up a designated blog where all members can vote on that flag item lets say within 1 month or so. The votes then decide the validity of the flag action. A win vote will be rewarded and a lost vote will be face a penalty. In this way democratization will play its role in ensuring fairness and prevent misuse.
Just sharing an idea, I'm no IT or a computer expert, nontheless if this can be enforced into the system, may resolve some underlying problems.
Thank you for reading this and looking forward for improvement.
Wishing all steemians an abundant, happy and prosperous 2018
We are Many but One