[eye-robot]

Interesting (side note) as I read all the commentary here: As people (obviously) are reacting to the particular "group psychology", or personality or culture here within HN, many commentators are heavily apologizing for not having specific links or attributions available. And I understand why now: Too many neurotic or OCD (or selfishly angry) individuals who will downvote in a heartbeat if the comment isn't to their supreme liking. So, to prove that point, this comment will (most likely) get downvoted into oblivion. I like free commentary sections that don't show off "commentary powers". I once asked a simple innocent question and the downvotes simply drove me to stop trusting anyone here... really sad, since I am an intelligent person with feelings and with curiosity and VALID opinions. Sorry that this rubs the weird people the wrong way. Just sayin'

[maksimur]

I've noticed the same thing but I don't remember it being so prevalent up until a few years ago. This is sad and as you rightly suggest it stifles curious conversations. I had to self-censor myself a few times already.