There's already been so much said so I'll just make one point. 😇
Steem(it) is in a unique position in the social network marketplace to try new things and adjust rapidly. In the spirit of experimentation to try and find the best way, I would be in favour of temporarily removing them and seeing how it pans out, with a kind of informally agreed timeline for review.
When most large companies make a change (Facebook, Apple, etc.) make a change there is a oneway conversation, usually without warning. Steemit can leverage the power of the community to make this work. Even if the result has a negative effect, it can be readjusted. There'll probably be moaning about money that got "stolen" as a result, but probably enough people that will be on board to make it work.
😁 👍
That's a great suggestion!