Ask HN: What benefits do comments on HN have?

I feel that the HN comments are useful as a method to improve the way I think and see the world.

For instance I'll put forward my opinion on one article and I'll almost always have at least one response both for and against my view. These arguments are well thought out. By being exposed to these responses I get a greater understanding of the situation and I grow as a result.

What benefits do the comments on HN have for you?

How do the rules on HN help facilitate this?

What kind of positive and negative behaviours are prevented by the rules?