This comment is specifically off-topic, per the rules. I don't, however, see jokes in comments mentioned.
> Please don't post comments saying that HN is turning into Reddit. It's a semi-noob illusion, as old as the hills.
> Please don't post comments saying that HN is turning into Reddit. It's a semi-noob illusion, as old as the hills.
Imagine a new user enters HN ecosystem. They write a complain about HN turning into Reddit - as they felt and observed. Then they go read the guideline that makes a fool out of them as "semi-noob". I don't think that kind of treatment belongs here.
Please don't take my quote as my highlighting the noob bit, as it also made me cringe a little. It's an entirely reasonable opinion that you (and the person who vehemently took up your cause in the comment tree) want a more content-rich thread.
But you have to understand posting that opinion is at least 1:1 comment volume with the thing being complained about--so best case, 100% bloat--and it tends to start a N:1 tree under it, so N-hundred% bloat. What was one content-light joke that would've had a few light replies is now a big discussion and now the thread is very, very content-lean for on-topic discussion.
I think that's why that rule is there, not because your opinion is invalid. If it's really that much of a problem such that the downvotes won't do it, then we need to talk but most threads work fine. Further, complaining about the substance of a comment within the same thread is guaranteed to make the overall situation worse, no matter how valid the complaint, because of the above.
I realize I'm contributing to the content-leanness at this point too, by that definition. However, you do deserve a respectful explanation as to why I felt it was appropriate to reply, and the apology for quoting the poorly-worded rule without trying to somehow acknowledge that. I should have, and I am sorry about that.
Thanks for the explanation and I can see why this whole complaining bit gets old and chewed upon over years. I've personally not stumbled upon anyone that complains about HN turning into Reddit.
Also, I feel out of place because I don't own this forum, don't have a stake in HN moderation and its workings. I don't think I have the right to complain in the first place.
Just felt like saying at the time and it felt right. Appreciate your thoughts and clarification.