Hey @nanzo-scoop! Thanks so much for your thoughtful reply. Getting different perspectives on this is exactly why I wanted to make this post - to start a conversation and hopefully learn a bit more about what's going on.

So interesting to hear that people used to be able to make Steem accounts with Facebook - crazy to think about now! It makes sense that perhaps this is a transitionary step while they test and get their own systems in place. Also great points about how a non-verified signup process would lead to immediate spam. I guess there really are no "shortcuts" to signing up for a blockchain based site that doesn't come up against some of the some issues we run into here on Steem.

Have a good day my friend! I hope you are doing well!