I realize that the points are rather arbitrary, but they can have value particularly for newer users and user who may not have contributed much. For example, t

I realize that the points are rather arbitrary, but they can have value particularly for newer users and user who may not have contributed much. For example, the ability to downvote happens at around 500-ish rep, so users in that point range might potentially see their privileges come and go based on comment down and up votes. While users with more than 4k rep like yourself might never see a change in permissions. In the end, I accept the rules and workings of this site and gladly participate. Without focusing on point hoarding (as you say that becomes arbitrary and ultimately meaningless), I think that potentially removing someones privileges with respect to this site should they fall in a critical point range and comment something about OSS that a vocal group on this site disagrees with seems wrong to me. I think Hacker News participation and the community should be able to have a healthy debate/exchange on tech issues without needing to worry about "points" in any capacity.