Ads aren't really the problem. We see ads all the time on facebook. Many times, people don't even realize they are seeing ads because they look natural posts. Ads that help users and introduce them to what they want is good in my opinion. The problem is with intrusive ads.
If Steemit adds a ad system that is clean and doesn't disrupt user experience, it will be fine.
But there are reasons, why I am here and not on facebook. :)
As I suggested in another comment, what about giving (only) these users who allow advertisements a small reward (could be a low percentage from the money the advertisers pay Steemit Inc.)? In addition it would be a very interesting model to let the users decide themselves which advertisements they like to see on their blog (and get paid for it) and which not.