An interesting concept although I think the word manipulate might be too strong. Nevertheless I get what you are saying and agree.

The Whales need to make sure they are looking after the platform and doing what is in the best of the long term interest of the ecosystem.

Too many operate purely on greed and self interest as you said.

Hopefully we will see a difference in Steem and what is taking place on there. SteemLeo appears to have a strong group of Whales who are supportive and trying to do what is best for the platform.