I disagree. Before stating an unpopular opinion, it is sometimes helpful to make it clear that you understand that the opinion is unpopular and that you (probab

I disagree. Before stating an unpopular opinion, it is sometimes helpful to make it clear that you understand that the opinion is unpopular and that you (probably) have a reason for bringing it up. Doing so tells people that maybe you have something novel to say on the issue and that they should give you fair hearing before assuming you are simply echoing an opinion that they decided they disliked long ago. Now, I see HNers using that phrase to elicit sympathy for opinions that aren't actually unpopular from time to time and that should stop, but sometimes you have to say "now hear me out," so you don't get shouted down.