I've been here a while and I think the truth is somewhere in between. HN has grown and shifted somewhat in the process, but ultimately dodged the bullet of can

I've been here a while and I think the truth is somewhere in between. HN has grown and shifted somewhat in the process, but ultimately dodged the bullet of cancerous growth. My take is that because HN started as a side-project of a successful technologist and investor who made his money elsewhere, there was never the financial pressure that hits most online services. Couple that with shared interests, strong culture, and a healthy dose of even-handed and principled moderation (thank you Dang!), and HN ended up with way-above average sustainability.