"by merely participating in a platform?"

What do you mean merely? Why is producing unique web content being minimized here? Pretty much any other crypto currency that launches rewards people for participating. There is always a chance to earn coins by participating. Usually in the form of mining or bounties.

Steemit's barrier to participating may be lower than others but the actual work involved in making any real money isn't easy unless you have a few whale friends like @kushed to make sure you get a head start.