> how do you address the fact that being downvoted harms the user experience?

oh, I blame you for that.

Well, not really, though i do think that the UI is a part of the problem.  showing the non-aggregate down votes in the UI, and representing it as a flag is a big part of that problem though.  Im not in favor of hiding it, but showcasing it is a mistake, IMO.

That said, i think you address it by educating people.  There is so much about steem that is completely different.  The blockchain.  porn now.  paying people for social content.

I think if we can get people to accept posts about alexanova and her adventures with Moe The Monster,  we can get people to accept the notion that a vote is a vote.  Its about money, and it isnt personal.

Step one is when people get flagged, and get upset about it, you say:  "Grow the fuck up.  this isnt facebook.  votes arent personal here.  Its about money."  well, maybe youre nicer than that, but you get the point.