@zathras is very correct in his assessment of where the power lies.
Of course it is important to firstly educate users on the folly of their behavior before resorting to flags. Flag wars are 'never' going to go well for a beginner (and thank goodness for that). :c)
Once the lesson is learnt it is noble to give people a second chance so that they may become balanced and contributing members of the Steemit community. :c)