Hey there, nice thoughts. I think we're still in the wait and see phase of Steemit- it's likely that a content driven self sustained economy will have a net positive effect of the quality of content and engagement with the audiences.
However when a network is small the cliques inside it are powerful. That's why I've been working to build up a stockpile of articles before I start posting. For now, clickbaity content is doing better but I see a few people working to build their brand and message and that gives me hope for the future.
Good luck to you, I will be following.
Thanks for your relevant and thoughtful words!