What other options does Linus have by your logic, then?
1) remove the person's comments
2) let the person's comments stand unchallenged
3) engage in a lengthy, potentially endless discussion with this person who is highly unlikely to change their mind
None of these seem like great options.
Linus probably recognizes that he has virtually zero chance of persuading this person's opinion. He probably also recognizes that a reader who comes across these outlandish claims unchallenged may get the wrong impression that these views are somehow being embraced by the community. As such he is absolutely correct in briefly explaining that the vaccines are safe and effective.
And being a pompous ass is kinda Linus' thing. :shrug:
Reminds me of Deskmate (on the Tandy 1000) which allowed you to choose a current directory. It would display files in the current directory under the icon for the relevant program.
1) remove the person's comments 2) let the person's comments stand unchallenged 3) engage in a lengthy, potentially endless discussion with this person who is highly unlikely to change their mind
None of these seem like great options.
Linus probably recognizes that he has virtually zero chance of persuading this person's opinion. He probably also recognizes that a reader who comes across these outlandish claims unchallenged may get the wrong impression that these views are somehow being embraced by the community. As such he is absolutely correct in briefly explaining that the vaccines are safe and effective.
And being a pompous ass is kinda Linus' thing. :shrug: