I can’t say I never downvote anyone but I get into these comment chains from time to time where really no matter what I post whoever I’m talking to downvotes every response but I generally shy away from downvoting even things I dislike. I don’t want to fall into an echo chamber where all I see are only the things I agree with.
The algorithm is between your left and right ear. If you believe votes have no influence on users behavior then I have some unfortunate news for you.
You specifically said “this platform”. This platform does not run on upvotes and downvotes.
My dude, we are part of this platform and some of us seem to care. So I’d say yes, it runs on those as well, but way less than others.
I also said the algorithm is between your left and right ear, aka your brain. People act and react to stimulus accordingly. Downvote and upvotes psychology still exists on Lemmy.