[baisq]

If this was a problem, the solution would be to allow avatars, and give a unique one (like gravatar) to users who don't set an avatar themselves.

[gala8y]

I agree. That's why things are as they are and ad hoc ideas about changing them are better left unexecuted.

If anyone wants a quick, nice pop-up on mouse-over, there is 'Refinded Hacker News' plugin for Chrome and FF: https://github.com/plibither8/refined-hacker-news

[Kaibeezy]

And also the option whether to see them or not. Set your options for more or less social interaction.

Would it alter the zeitgeist subtly or dramatically? Most noticeable to the more social or less social people? Here in Konishi polis.