I don't disagree. In most instances, I think publications serve as a first line of defense in weeding out crap from non crap. Medium is looking at publications and editors as the first step in curation, though they're still not sure how to compensate for the work. That's why the boost thing is in beta.

If you're an established commodity, there isn't much need for a publication unless you have friends there or want to be edited.

Like Connie said, I published almost exclusively with the pubs for which I edit, and I have those editors help with with stuff. I'm too impatient to wait days for someone I don't know to change my shit.

Not to mention that the interface between writer/editor on this platform is simply awful and cumbersome.