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Maybe, but I don't think that would improve the quality of discussion. When I get downvoted, it's usually because I'm a) factually wrong b) didn't explain the reasoning behind a counterintuitive statement or c) disagreed with someone on an emotionally charged topic. At least in cases a) and b), downvotes help me improve my writing.

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Definitely agree. I find when I'm downvoted it was due to being an impulsive post rather than a well thought out post.

With the amount you see people say 'I'll get downvoted for this but...' then go on to be the top post, I think the downvoted helps more than hurts.

There's groupthink of course, but I feel the HN community is more responsible with it, and that comes from someone who often disagrees with the majority (personally, rarely expressed).

Most of my downvotes were when I was being snarky. A few were caused by me going against some HN orthodoxy but they usually get upvoted later.

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