I quote my response from Medium Support to my question of whether a clap is “worth” more if the reader actually read the piece here:

When In Doubt? Ask Medium Support

I was told that all claps are equal.

That being said, the amount of reads a piece gets is a separate metric that apparently makes a difference.

But I believe that, based on the Medium Support response, which i have quoted in full in this piece, a clap itself is not valued more if the “reader” who gave it actually read the post.

THANK you for taking the time and trouble to post your comment. I appreciate it.