Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

This is a delicate topic with a lot of factors. I don't know if I would call a suicide due to depression 'ragequitting.'

Quitting, in general, is a healthy and normal action. It's why we all ended up doing what we're doing today (we had to quit something to stop being the proverbial male ballerina). Jeff himself leads the article with what he quit a year ago, and I interpret his view of that decision positively.

It seems like Jeff believes that there are 'ok' ways to quit and 'not ok' ways. Great. But, who is he to decide what is ok and not ok for others? I'm certainly not equipped to say so, and I don't believe Jeff is either. He is judging Aaron. When I was brought up, I was told that telling others what to do in absolute terms was also a form of immaturity. It's all a matter of perspective.

Aaron's death is a tragedy for many reasons and due to causes and circumstances I will never understand. I can't pretend to proscribe any decisions Aaron made. I appreciate Jeff using his articulate and otherwise entertaining writing to help express what he is feeling.

It's open writing like this that helps our community grieve; I just don't agree with Jeff.




Agreed, I can't judge Jeff. This seems to really hit close to home with him. It's really brave of Jeff to admit he contemplated suicide.

I was taken aback at Jeff for being angry that Aaron's death has become an effective martyrdom. Quite frankly, if anything can be salvaged from this man's death, salvage it. If he is making the argument others will commit suicide to become martyrs like Aaron, then I would consider his argument. Any positive effect of Aarons suicide don't make his actions right, but I welcome them just the same.


Outstanding comment - balanced, thoughtful and carefully worded. Nicely done and I completely agree.




Consider applying for YC's W25 batch! Applications are open till Nov 12.

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: