I think it depends on where they are in the world. Here, I think it would be foolish to view HIVE as a way of making money as the cost of living is so high. In other countries, it could be viable with a low cost of living.
Hive is just a tool at the end of the day, it is up to the person as to how they use it.
Absolutely agree with you.
I know that in some countries an average monthly salary is around 20$. So, yes, people can survive for a whole month of they write a good post and get enough quality upvotes.
On another side, there are so many different apps related or connected to hive. For example, games like splinterlands. Somehow they are part of the Hive too. And actually some people make around 1,000-2,000$ per month. And personally, I know people who make even more. So, it always depends on.... anyway, I think Hive is a great opportunity, but what kind of opportunity it is, everyone decide by him/herself :)
!BBH