Still, why not link to a page offset and just show what is current? Or include it with the current linking and automatically redirect? Pretty basic ux optimization.
Because the functions which generate pages get garbage collected. Once the function is gone, there is no reference point.
I suspect hindering spam and vote manipulation plays a part in the architectural decisions. It also makes it possible to create different HN's for different users - e.g. the hellbanned, royals, and plebeians.
Royals and plebeians might be a little strong. YC folks have a slightly different interface. I think the main differences are that YC usernames show up in orange and there is a link along the top that displays the most recent submissions from YC folks/alumni.
"Royals" came to mind from FlameWarriors - though maybe my predispostion to think of PG as the Philosopher King of HN played a role. Anyway, "Plebians" was just pushing the political analogy a little further. I'll take your word about the differences in interface. I really was just conjecturing.
I suspect hindering spam and vote manipulation plays a part in the architectural decisions. It also makes it possible to create different HN's for different users - e.g. the hellbanned, royals, and plebeians.