It is usually encouraged on HN to argue with / respond to the points made by the person you in discussion with, not the vocal minority/majority out in the world

It is usually encouraged on HN to argue with / respond to the points made by the person you in discussion with, not the vocal minority/majority out in the world who hold a different view. Otherwise you get two people talking past each other. The fact that there are people who are fans of gun control AND express themselves immaturely with vapid politicised statements appealing to emotion doesn't excuse the almost trollish characteristic of the "do you think women should be defenseless against rapists" above.