My opinion, which does not matter anyway and is probably wrong (because I do not know all the arguments for which this negative vote was introduced) is that the downvote is harmful, it is a weapon made available to the powerful but here it should not be a war!
Many who want to be blockchain and Hive ideologues call this a decentralized place, this would be a great advantage and difference from the bad world of politicians and bankers, a place where everyone is equal and freedom of expression is guaranteed. Utopia. There is no difference. The financially strong are the ones who lead, just like in the real world. The rich become even richer, those without resources have no chance to be heard (in the sense that they can change something). Or they can? (I don't have an example of this).
I understand your rebellion @calumam but I don't think I understand all your reasons. In the current conditions, it seems to be a chivalrous challenge to the confrontation, even if you know that you have no chance to win.
“Who wishes to fight must first count the cost” - Sun Tzu, The Art of War
It is said that "at war as at war", but I would have liked to find another method in this potential conflict, not the same downvote.
Because this downvote is a permanent threat, even if it is not used. Just by the fact that it exists.
Does this sound like a healthy platform to you?
Unfortunately, my answer tends to be no ...
This is an important comment.
Thank you!