Yes! I'm glad you pointed this out, Kent. I hope I conveyed my message in the post clearly, as I really don't want my stance to be misinterpreted. Personally, I really take in other users content. I don't only vote, but I leave heartfelt comments on their post, mostly to show them that I appreciate their effort in putting up a post. Sure, that has the subtext that I hope that person notices my post as well. That they comment and share their thoughts, not just blindly vote, but I don't obligate anyone to do so.

I really still don't get why people are stingy with their upvotes. It doesn't cost anyone anything, and they're not losing any money from replying to comments. If they don't like a post, okay sure, by all means don't vote for it.

I like your backscratching analogy, it really drives home the current climate. I really hope this changes for the better, or else risk Steemit going down the path of other social networks.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and for the upvote! I hope that you enjoyed reading, and I really appreciate you taking the time to comment.