"We are creating a world where anyone, anywhere may express his or her beliefs, no matter how singular, without fear of being coerced into silence or conformity." - John Perry Barlow
IMHO - Downvoting on Steemit creates in some people a fear of being coerced into silence, or conformity. The reason being; is because they don't want to lose the fruits that their labor (or free speech) has merited them. That being said, many people, when you downvote them, will resort to self-censorship, or silence.
I never heard of John Perry Barlow before today, but after reading his manifesto, I'd like to learn allot more about him, and truly do hope that his rest, is a peaceful one.