I agree that it probably does drive away some new users, but those people would also likely leave when that dont get paid big bucks on their first post.
the whale/robot folks can be on Steemit for the short/medium term. creators have to look at this in long term mode
In the long term, we'll all be dead 8-). But I get your point and I hope for the best. I don't see things shifting the right way yet, though, however slowly.