Downvoting has much of it's bad rap because of those that use it improperly.
Using them to flag opinions, criticism, and content representing alternative worldviews does NOT represent ideal use.
Using them to flag spam, plagiarism and various forms of token manipulation is their proper use and that would have great potential towards our economy.
That is only if we can get over the stigma that has come about from the improper use. We should also take actions against those that are misusing them.
Projects like @freezepeach is a step in the right direction but it is severely underpowered.
@steemflagrewards also has a small flag abuse @neutralizer that is employed against those that retaliate against abuse fighters buy it needs to be automated. </sub