STEEM is a decentralized blockchain. The disadvantage that Facebook has is that it is a centralized organization. Even though it employs thousands of the finest developers, they are still hired hands. All research is going to take place within the parameters that are set up by Facebook. And, ultimately, even if those people love what they are doing, they are there for the paycheck. STEEM's decentralization gives it an advantage that makes it unstoppable by a centralized organization.
Helo @taskmaster4450...you so hit the nail on the head at this point. When I got to this point in your post I just smiles because this actually ends the case and clears all doubts.
The fact that steemit is decentralized and people just get to do what they love to do, developers get to developer software from thier hearts just because that's what they love to do, gives steemit so much edge over Facebook when it decides to add a toekn to its operation . The developers will just be there for the pay just like you said and as it is with a one man show, Mark would want everything to meet his personal taste and this would put a lot of limit to what the developers can achieve invariably pulling Facebook way below steemit.
This is really yet another great piece from you I must say...keep it up bro.
It is a great post, and I am optimistic about the future of Steem and Steemit, but I think you're underestimating Facebook. Facebook is not Mark Zuckerberg - there are a lot of talented people there, who've built a juggernaught - and one which won't be de-railed easily.
Yes, they'll have to adapt to the challenge of blockchains, decentralisation and tokens, but they don't have to do it the same way to compete, or stay ahead.
Even if they didn't do anything blockchain-related, they could introduce a totally centralised Facebook token to reward their audience in some way - and they'd happily lap it up and be delighted to get anything.