[doktrin]

I view comments as a form of feedback. As such, they go both ways. As a contributor, I would want to see sincere examples of both positive and negative feedback. We don't only learn from mistakes, after all. Upvotes are nice, but comments are generally considered to be more meaningful.

HN tends to err on the side of critical feedback, which is a reflection, in part, of the evidence-driven ethos that permeates hacker culture. This is generally a trait I hold in high regard, and take the downside as par for the course. However, I agree with the parent in that having some empathy for those we critique would improve the general tone of discussion here.