[CoastalCoder]

IIUC, you're saying that we can't express strong feelings without acrimony. Is that correct?

I've been impressed sometimes by examples of good diplomacy in HN threads. I've found them instructive for my own conversational skills.

[throwaway93754]

No, that's not what I'm trying to say. I think it's hard to assume good intentions sometimes.

[CoastalCoder]

I see. Yeah, it's a vexing problem. Occasionally I make a comment on HN with the best of intentions, and despite that I'm accused of not discussing in good faith. I haven't found a good way of persuading them otherwise once that happens.

It's frustrating because I think it prevents some really interesting and important conversations, especially on difficult topics.

[throwaway93754]

Yeah, I agree. I have to admit that I've probably been on both sides of that. It's human nature I suppose.