RE: Although subjectively downvoting posts to zero is anathema to me, the Layer 1 ability to do so must remain (for now at least)

A middle-of-the-road solution might be to enable stakeholders to 'delegate' a portion of their HP to a special account that continually self-votes half its HP

Sounds complex, and I am sure it goes against the core hive values. But it is a possible discussion point.

Are you attending hive fest?

Do you know the core members? Might be a good idea to get to know some of them during the hive fest.