I think most people would give a higher vote if they knew they might have to defend their vote later.

i seriously doubt it would result in less of all that, quite the contrary. the stream of votes and revenge votes and flaming because someone voted a 5 for something that so totally kicks ass it atleast deserves a 9, i dont want to see it. the concern about the social aspect is exactly why making your votes public is completely your own choice.

the artist can ask any voter, "why do you like it so much ?"
or, "why do you hate it so much ?"

he will be likely to do this in private. whats the use to open a thread and write "hey Geir, why do you vote 4 for this ?" - it dont concern you, only the artist and geir.

secondly, you can find downvoters.
unless its a basic demo with flashing bordercolors and a text saying "Hello World!" - nothing deserves a 1, nothing.

then we will accept to live with the outcome, and this discussion can be buried or rest a long time, before someone else is not satisfied and demands another vote on the subject.

1987 campaign like newsletter, to encourage users to vote on their favorite stuff, in different categories. on a regular basis, sent by the system automaticly, direct to inbox and email. try to get people to vote instead of just giving up to fight for it.

After reading all this, here is my current analysis:

1. releases are art

Yes they are.