See that's exactly why I don't believe Steemit was created for the common man :-/ I don't think many things are. Now I love this platform, I do - but remember the creators own something like 84% of all existing Steem.

That said - it certainly gives the 'common man' a higher chance to succeed then other platforms. But I think believing this was ever something where everyone has an equal chance is wishful thinking - as, since you pointed out, there is a hierarchy based 100% on monetary wealth.

hugs back.