I think this behavior serves as a test of Steemit's ability to resist geting exploited and might uncover some design flaws, which in the end could be fixed and improve Steemit overall. But then again, people will always seek new ways to trick the system.
I like your view that Steemit is a mirror of human nature. There are those who try to cheat the system who get short term gains, and there are those who keep pushing out great content and get rewarded organically for that, which is way more profitable in the long run. If we look at it the other way, with humanan nature being a mirror of Steemit, and considering how well Steemit works even with upvote bots, I think humanity has a bright future.
Thanks for the great comment, I didn't reply cause I had nothing to add :P
And yet you replied;)