When money is at play it's obviously always going to affect people to some extent, it's going to change the dynamic, That's not necessarily a bad thing its just how it is but it is something to note.
I agree with you though, while I do like earning money, if I put up a post I like to see upvotes even if they don't equate to money and I like to see comments even if the commentor doesn't upvote. I just like to know that I'm not creating content that nobody is viewing and I enjoy hearing something I created either helped or entertained someone.
I do however think a large portion of Steemians interact for the reciprical interaction and or to get on someones radar. You can tell this by the one or two word comments like nice post or the vague comments that show the person didn't really take in teh content and just wanted to post something.
I was getting a little frustrated with my lack of progress on here and then all the sudden interaction, comments, money all started comming a bit more, its kind of reinvigorated me.
Yes you spoke my mind!! It's extremely frustrating when you have put in time and effort to create something good and you don't even know if people liked it or worse, whether people even saw it!!
Btw, would love to get some suggestions and tips if you have any to make progress as a beginner here!!
Cheers!!