I have just joined Steemit and have already come to see this problem and thought of the same solution. I would love to be able to follow tags and topics, it is these that are my interests - not particular individuals.
I especially click with your comment about being able to see the variety of new views to a topic that new people would bring.
Lastly I believe this could help to prevent the Hollywood factor you mentioned causing the growth of an elite minority.
So please Steemit, let us follow topics and tags!