It's human nature .... and it's also politics and marketing

In the non political communities, the people with the most time take the opportunity to moderate. Unfortunately having time on your hands is not an indicator of wealth, ability or status. A percentage of these people are just internet addicted individuals that spend all their lives online. And a percentage of these people see moderating as way to give them power over others.

The other dynamic I see happening is politics and marketing and propaganda. In the political communities, important messages need to be pushed by state organizations or groups to push a message or react to opposing views. We like to think that we are a tiny independent bubble in Lemmy but the more popular it becomes, the more professional and dedicated marketers will migrate into the service.

It's all human nature .... the human nature to be in control, to have control or to exert control.

And like you say, the only way to moderate it all is to moderate ourselves and others on a continual basis.

“The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.” -Thomas Jefferson

We will never achieve a free form social media that can be open, inclusive and safe for everyone ... we have to realise that we have to always be fighting and advocating for one, otherwise we will always run the risk of giving room to those who want control over everyone and everything.