[olfactory]

Very well put. I've made a very similar point to HN mods in the past and it was arrogantly rebuffed. They just don't perceive the distinction you describe.

I think many HN readers agree with the point you make, but a vocal and influential minority (as well as the mods) do not.

[na85]

Well, if any moderator reads this and wants to discuss it civilly then they should email me and I will happily oblige.

[throwajay9462]

the “silent majority” is a fantastic sign of a bad argument

the truth is actually very simple; politics is merely one aspect, not always present, rarely the most important, and even more rarely interesting