15% is given to Steem Power
that would explain the fact that I've seen my SteemPower increase without me doing anything....
As for respect...well yeah.
I give more credibility to someone who has a higher reputation.
When a minnow with a rep of less than 30 starts preaching how the cow ate the cabbage...I'm less than impressed.
If an account has EARNED (not bought) a large amount of SteemPower....they usually have a higher reputation too.
Exhibit A:
You'll notice his Reputation? 75.5...he's ranked #16 by reputation of everyone on Steemit. 34,599 Steem Power ain't half bad either.
I happen to know that he got IT ALL by posting, commenting and voting. He did NOT buy in...not only Have I 'spoken' with him on Steemit but his account (as is everyones') can be examined on SteemWhales.
So yeah....SteemPower is worthy of respect...most especially when it has been earned. Reputation is the indicator of whether it has been earned or bought.
OOPS. I disagree. (I had previously said EXACTLY) -- was pressed for time and replied too quick.
SteemPower is worthy of respect, because of the investment in the system, and potential to curate well.
Whether it is bought or earned does not matter. You can invest time, or money. They are the same for SP and should be seen the same way when it comes to curation.
Reputation, on the other hand, can only be earned. That is where it matters, and why @Papa-Pepper could be admired.
If you use the word 'respect' in the same manner as 'respect the grenade, when it's pin is pulled Mr. Grenade is NOT your friend' , in regard to some rich person who bought up a bunch of steempower..then I would agree.
I say this because I've seen Whales flag a dissenting Steemer to oblivion for personal reasons. PappaSmurf comes to mind.