Hey there @noisy, I have actually posted an 2 in-depth posts about your priority number 2 with very similar thoughts and points. In 1, I diagnose the issue and in the other, as a proposal on utopian.io I determine the solution, which is in essence, what you have stated here.

You can find them here :

Growing Unhappiness with Upvote Bots on Steemit
Proposal for New 'Promoted' Function

I am working towards bringing as much attention towards the proposal as I sincerely feel it will bring positive impact upon steemit, the same thought which you have. I'd appreciate if you would have a look at it.

Thank you!