I am new in nostr and still learning but I get what you're saying, however what I have seen these first days on here is that likes don’t work the same way as on traditional platforms. There’s no algorithm boosting engagement or monetization tied to them, so their impact may be different. If someone values them (I was using them so far), it’s probably more about quick interaction than seeking validation, but again, I am new and still learning, just trying to add a beginer pov.