From the FAQ: > "How are stories ranked?" > "The basic algorithm divides points by a power of the time since a story was submitted. Comments in threads are ra

From the FAQ: > "How are stories ranked?" > "The basic algorithm divides points by a power of the time since a story was submitted. Comments in threads are ranked the same way." > "Other factors affecting rank include user flags, anti-abuse software, software which demotes overheated discussions, and moderator intervention." From what I've seen, having so many more comments than points is one of the triggers for the "overheated discussions". Probably not the only factor, but probably a significant one.