I think there is a lot of truth in what they are saying.
"Currently, the quality of the top steemit articles is dismal. Since it is a prediction market it says: "people are stupid". I hope for a better incentive system that honors thoughtfulness."
"At this point in time people just seem to have quick $$ in their mind. I hope it improves over time, even a 50 cent for post is more than majority ever get out of their time in traditional social media and those who take it seriously can make much more. So hopefully they can build something good out of Steem, for now, I have my doubts as well."
We need to be aware that the quality of posts is dependent on the human factor, not the system. There is no such thing as "an incentive system that honors thoughtfulness".
when 90% of your "investment" is locked away for 2 years... how can you hope to bring in new investors? This Circle jerk session needs a reality check.
(I can see no relationship between the problem of posts' quality and funds being locked in Steem power)
Anyway, funds being locked away for 2 years is good news for serious investors - it inspires confidence that all other shareholders (including the founders) will not disappear easily.