The reward pool does not need protecting.
The reason we have a reward pool is so we can distribute Steem to as many people as we can. This behavior will increase the value of Steem as more people exchange goods and services for Steem.
The Flag takes away others slice and gives most of it to the largest stake holder.

Hitler said if you tell a lie loud enough for long enough, people will believe it. That is exactly what is going on here. The largest stake holder creating flag wars to enrich himself even more.