I think to a certain degree it’s caused by echo chambers, which tend to drive off diverse content. This is a test of every social media, to see if it can outgrow it, or if entrenched “early” people make the experience so heinous for newbies they just leave.

On another side, it’s likely the same popularity contest that’s always existed - like you suggest.

Then on another side the “X is a shitcoin/fiat” culture is becoming toxic and obnoxious. It’s a statement that builds nothing, contributes no original or creative thought, and proposes no solution besides “get on the right bandwagon.”

It’s ironic that right now the bandwagon is “you need to buy a new phone to nostr” instead of “nostr cannot be stopped.” The power of nostr is that the App Store decision will make *zero* difference in the ability of people to use and benefit from nostr. Celebration is in order.