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OK, let's assume you're not interested in "nudging" the poster. (I don't think downvote is a nudge, because that requires an explanation or direction, but put t
by js8 6y ago
OK, let's assume you're not interested in "nudging" the poster. (I don't think downvote is a nudge, because that requires an explanation or direction, but put that aside.)
"The other case where I might downvote and not respond is when it's a tired debate (usually political, often over diversity/equality related topics) and the comment is arguing with common talking points that use incorrect facts or is arguing with common bad faith talking points."
Well, consider that these common bad faith talking points are repeated because nobody bothers to rebut them properly. If other people (not the OP) see these, they might think of them as valid arguments. If you respond to them, you are also explaining to others, why they are not valid. It is a lot more helpful (you can actually convince someone) than just downvoting. And if your counter-argument is really good, it might be picked up by people on your side, too.
- munchbunny 6y agoI'm sure you've encountered the type of talking point, especially in political discourse, where the rebuttal is commonly available and you can more or less guess what the rebuttal to the rebuttal is, and what comes after that, until it's reduced to the same points you've seen before. Every time diversity issues in Silicon Valley come up on HN, there are at least several of those in the thread. Those discussions are almost always polarizing, even for bystanders. If the goal is to be helpful and to convince bystanders, then I think it's much more productive to find and engage with the comments where people are asking thoughtful questions, engaging healthily, or giving an overview of the common points made on the topic. Or just upvote those for visibility instead.