Sure. Where do we derive most of our knowledge as individuals? From anecdotes from others. Is that science? No, not at all, but it's where science often starts. It's a preliminary experiment to at least find out some idea of what may be possible. While not repeated, peer reviewed, or verified in any meaningful way that doesn't make this useless.

The OP walked into a room full of very curious people and called them idiots without any attempt at enlightening them on what statements or assumptions might be wrong. In what way is that helpful? HN is not a peer-reviewed journal, it's a place for discussion and he detracted from that discussion.

Instead, I was hoping he might provide something meaningful that we could consider in trying to process this anecdote.

Great answer. Sounds like I'm reading the words of a true skeptic.