If witnesses were more open about their positions (as they are "representatives" of the blockchain), then the "constituents" on the blockchain could then push witnesses that supported them. These witnesses could block future forks on the chain unless desired changes are made. The amount of governance built into Steem is in my opinion one of it's most undervalued features.
While Steem is open-sourced, the issue is that the code is basically being written by Steemit, Inc. and most witnesses welcome their changes with open arms. I think we need more witnesses to push back against certain changes when they or their supporters disagree with them.