I want to be among people who interact as equals, who share ideas, who cooperate in a genuine way.

I think online journalism might be a good example of influencers and users interacting as equals. Users provide extra information, ask questions, reify, and help highlight where the journalist can focus. The journalist does the leg work to produce novel news.

If we try a shortcut to more users through money, what is the point?

To build an interesting, self sustaining network, where people can express themselves fully, and understand each other.

The features I'm suggesting would benefit everyone: a decent view of trending topics/posts/tags; mod-controlled tags; stuff like that. Most users would find them helpful, but a few could use it to build a livelihood that others value.

Agreed. The only thing I actually miss is geographically local contacts. But as far as just culture and discourse goes - I'm good.