Well I can empathize with the author. I too feel almost everything of importance that I've ever accomplished intellectually or mathematically, however modest, e

Well I can empathize with the author. I too feel almost everything of importance that I've ever accomplished intellectually or mathematically, however modest, emerged as the result of intense collaboration with colleagues, complete with rigorous arguments. We would often change sides solely to get a burst of new energy when stuck in the same old thoughts. It's how research is done. I also begin a lot of comments that I don't publish (please give the karma to swah below for saying it first :), as writing is a skill you have to work at. I don't consider myself a lurker, as my low karma might indicate given I've been here 1306 days, but mostly I scan and occasionally read in depth and try to jump in when I can add value or correct obvious mistakes. In terms of interests it's surprising how diverse this community is. Even with lots of programmers one wouldn't expect to find so many familiar with category theory. I've seen HN change, often not for the better, and I'm reminded of Shirky's essay on a group being it's own worst enemy, but I've watched this puppy grow for a long time so I'm staying. Besides, I haven't owned a TV in 20 years now and I miss the Saturday morning cartoons. HN fills that gap.