It's an easy form of self-effacement. If I state my opinion and someone proves me wrong, I'd look silly at best, or risk cancellation at worst. If I preface by

It's an easy form of self-effacement. If I state my opinion and someone proves me wrong, I'd look silly at best, or risk cancellation at worst. If I preface by saying it's a hot take, I can easily distance myself from what I said if it's received badly.