4 ms·

Seems like that default oversteps the need for editors. It's not adding clarity. It's pimping information for promotion, not genuine interest.

• pg 16y ago
  The default derives from the site's origins as a place for YC alumni to exchange links. HN is in effect like an alumni magazine that has gotten a broader readership.
  • robg 16y ago
    I've never seen it referenced as such. Is that what you'd prefer it to be? Rather than a default editorial action, why not simply ask the community to put the YC info in the title? Like I said, it changes the interest for me. I'm less likely to read marketing. I could be in the minority even in this case as a happy Airbnb user.
    • pg 16y ago
      Often the people who submit links do put the YC info in titles. But it wouldn't work to make it a rule that one had to, because a lot of submitters wouldn't know what batch a given startup was in.
      • robg 16y ago
        That always seemed strange to me - a blend of advertising and ingratiation. I guess the difference here is I didn't think editors were responsible. Surely though the editors don't catch all YC references? If that's your desire, I'm sure many in the community would be interested in helping, even if the session year has to be corrected/added.
        • riffer 16y ago
          Surely though the editors don't catch all YC references? The YC alums are the editors, that's why some things end up dead and others don't a blend of advertising and ingratiation HN is YC marketing, it didn't really start out as an alumni magazine either, but once they realized that they could use it to, you know, sell ...