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

Really?

How about I am not a fan of someone who blindly jump into drama without getting to know the background information?

Here's a short version for ya.

1. I don't like people self voting comments on the grounds that they are "providing value".

2. I don't like someone who behaves like I need to run by them for every downvote I cast. He couldn't be bothered to get into our channels or ask why things happen. The first response is always, "whoever downvoting is bad".

3. I don't appreciate people equating everyone downvoting operating the same way Hivewatchers operate.

You aren't exactly the best judge of character on this chain. I would kindly ask you to not be involved in things that don't concern you.