[karaterobot]

I often flag discussions not because I agree or disagree with any particular aspect of the post, but because the discussion itself has turned unproductive and is unlikely to change. I think that's one way flagging is supposed to be used, technically. I give people the benefit of the doubt that they are doing the same thing.

If there's a place on the internet where people can discuss all topics without it turning into a flamewar, or a series of people just saying things near each other without actually discussing anything, I would like to go there instead of HN. But those places are increasingly rare on the open web!