Slashdot’s own code was open-sourced for other websites to build on top of. When HN was founded, it could have even used Slashdot’s own system of moderation dir

Slashdot’s own code was open-sourced for other websites to build on top of. When HN was founded, it could have even used Slashdot’s own system of moderation directly. However, HN is part of Y Combinator, and the latter undoubtedly wants to protect its brand. Discussion on such corporate-owned websites naturally always entails more severe moderation than on hobbyist communities or ones run by a small business.