I think the developers would argue that those who vote up a story early which later gains significant popularity deserve 'good curation recognition'. That is, they got it right in predicting what others wanted to read. But as you point out in another comment, that doesn't mean an overlooked submission lacks quality. It merely means it lacked popularity. And given the Steam Power system, popularity isn't necessarily a function of votes - but is also influenced by the powerful influencers.

I think you've missed my point in bringing up a Tragedy of the Commons. Because it goes to the heart of why I think the comparison in this article is problematic. Regardless, it's well done. And I enjoyed reading it.