I agree with this. Part of what makes Hacker News great, in my opinion, is the fact that it contains few of those usual social media bells and whistles mentioned above. I feel like it places more emphasis on quality content and in-depth responses. I don't really feel the need to "follow" anyone, but do take a look at the top user list from time to time.

That is not to say that things like notifications might not be useful, just that I come here more for the content and intelligent thought, and less for the social aspect.