As far as Steemit is concerned maybe ned decided to come out and be more transparent held off mass desertion until he could draw out his millions. Some people just can't see the forest for the trees, every man can't be expected to police themselves let alone a community, there will always be those who will use their power for their advantage to the detriment of the community as a whole, this is why there will never be a voluntarism society. If he doesn't turn it into a free expression platform without fear of retribution then it's only a matter of time when Ben Swan gets his platform up and running and finally drives the final nail in Steemits coffin.