Strange that the article seems to hinge mostly on moderation, rather than any of the other things that make HN a great resource.
To me the great difference of HN over anything else has been the expectation on commentors to write something thoughtfull and well argued, and it's discouragement of frivolous commentary.
The mainstream media seems hungup on the concept of moderation when discussing online communities, and I think the moderation framework is only a minor part of what make these communities work.
> I think the moderation framework is only a minor part of what make these communities work.
With all due respect, it feels to me that you have never had the experience of running an online community at scale. I believe the moderation for this site is the only thing that keeps it from deteriorating into complete chaos and toxicity.
I am also amazed that the two moderators have managed to hang on for so long. It seems to me like the archetypal burnout job.
To me the great difference of HN over anything else has been the expectation on commentors to write something thoughtfull and well argued, and it's discouragement of frivolous commentary.
The mainstream media seems hungup on the concept of moderation when discussing online communities, and I think the moderation framework is only a minor part of what make these communities work.