We live in a world that encourages divisiveness for reward

This is where Hive could excel. We can change that and remove divisiveness and replace it with inclusiveness, but Hive as a Social aspect seems to be becoming part of the rest of the online world by rewarding the divisive nature, (made up drama).

As for votes, use it as you see fit has pretty much always been my philosophy also on Hive. I have tried to point out to new users the benefit of voting on other people verse the self vote especially when their vote is dust level, but always as just a suggestion.