Maybe those with non-conforming views simply decide to keep their mouths shut for fear of some kind of retribution which could be either written or downvotes by the majority that are reading a particular story or comment thread.
I'd encourage you to speak your mind. I purposely upvote comments I don't agree with as long as they're constructive to the conversation.
The status quo seems to more or less think of itself as meritocratic, too.
> The status quo seems to more or less think of itself as meritocratic, too.
Those successful in the status quo at any point in time are inclined to perceive, or at least portray, that status quo as meritocratic.