Claiming that users have a better experience when their influence matters and then diluting that influence
Today something like a charlatan can first devise their latest and greatest example of nothingness and false hopes. That charlatan will then purchase votes, enriching those who do not own the trending page, and diluting our influence at the same time, for nothing. The charlatan will then ask for delegations from the community. Maybe 1000 or more people will delegate, diluting their influence along the way. The charlatan will then use that SP to dilute our influence further, by voting for bunk or whatever else these people do with their time these days. Then they leave with bags of money while nearly everyone else sits there thinking, gee. I didn't see that coming.
If this plan actually works, these legitimate businesses have a legitimate source. They don't need to enrich the vote sellers for a spot on the trending page, all they need to do is tag it. Community voting power no longer needs to be wasted on the latest and greatest promotion because visibility is earned instantaneously so instead that VP can go to those wanting to get paid for their posts. Businesses don't need to ask the community for delegations, that community SP can then be freed up for voting purposes since many enjoy earning more on their posts anyway, and curators are getting a raise. Impeccable timing.
The charlatan will look foolish presenting their case to the public, because if the plan was legit, they would be able to take the official approach to all of this instead of the shady road. If Steemit is looking out for number one and rejects the charlatan, the community should be able to take a hint and not set themselves up for failure.
Provided these delegations are used for what's stated above, this could actually free up a lot of influence, rather than diluting it. There are a few positives here.
As much as I disagree with handouts. This line:
The most attractive delegation recipients are those who do not require a delegation in order to survive and thrive. If a business requires a delegation to function, it is not a business, and does not warrant a delegation.
That one means a lot to me. They should be investing in their own businesses, purchasing STEEM, proving themselves, before they see anything that could make them feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
I'm not saying it's going to work. I'm not saying there won't be problems. I do see potential here. I hope they don't screw it up.