Interesting discussion my friend. I've read through all the comments and see the level of discouragement in the majority who responded. Of course, the platform would grow a heck of a lot faster IF the payouts program made the adjustments you suggest. Shouldn't this too be in the best interest of the Founding Whales here? And if their own self-upvoting is the cause of this perceived "poverty" of the "minnow class," what would it take to bring this to light and promote a democratic petition to rectify some of the inequities?
You pitched out an interesting case mate. Write it up as a formal grievance and post it. I've got your back too. ~ longshot
I'm still pretty new here myself and don't blog enough due to time constraints to have an educated answer (as in: what's a ".01 steem private message?" See? nube ignorance :-) But if you come up with a plan, sign me up.