I understand what you are saying. But like it or not bots are part of the Steemit Platform. It might not be ethical to use them, but it is not wrong, nor illegal - otherwise, it won't be allowed on the platform.
I also like my work to be judge on it merits. But unfortunately, that is quite impossible.
I guess at the end of the day, it is up to each of us to do as we wish (within the guidelines of course), on Steemit.