Alternatively we could argue that the HN realm is some kind of weird partially-albeit-loosely rules-based environment that doesn't represent reality more than s

Alternatively we could argue that the HN realm is some kind of weird partially-albeit-loosely rules-based environment that doesn't represent reality more than superficially, and that the little arrows, karma counting, and ladder-climbing (influence or points) are a sad, incomplete replacement for true human connection. Who's to say, really? Is any other environment much different? In conclusion: I'm not sure whether I understand my original comment, either. It probably says more about me than expected, and perhaps to boost my ego further, I should follow my own guidance and walk away from that :)