Very good post @whatsup and a good reminder to everyone not to judge a book by its cover. As you say, there are a lot of people trying to work out how to make steemit work for them and as with the real world, we in the west often fail to realize the impact that can be felt by something that in our lives is taken for granted.
Though I don't do this myself I think that in some cases, especially among the new users, this is actually quite a successful way of building up a 'following' and seems to be used as a support mechanism among newer users who are happy to use these practices to get a foothold on the platform.
Perhaps once this foothold is gained they are able to have a positive impact on the platform.
Essentially though, judge lest ye be judged and if it isn't doing anyone any harm what is the problem? If you don't want to follow for follow then don't. Simple! :)
Thanks again. Hope your day is going well!
Love the attitude and gave you a follow.
Thank you @whatsup! Hope your day is going well my friend!