[mkl95]

There is a big overlap between charismatic people and self-censors. Some topics that are regularly discussed on HN can get you fired if you bring them up at work and they rub someone the wrong way. Generally, the industry does not provide a healthy framework for non technical conversation.

[pjc50]

Well .. yes? Obviously picking what you say for your audience and only saying that is a basic requirement for getting social respect, and blurting out what you think regardless of impact will get you regarded as boorish.

You have to have a lot of charisma to play being an asshole for laughs and credit, and that only works in-person and not on the internet.

[mkl95]

It is largely a cultural thing. At my current place I can discuss endemic industry issues with relative freedom without fearing for my job. At some places mentioning tech debt is enough to bother some higher up with a chip on their shoulder.