In my experience, this is a semi-truthful account of how karma on HN is awarded. I say semi-true in the sense that it's not wholly inaccurate. Valuable and tho

In my experience, this is a semi-truthful account of how karma on HN is awarded. I say semi-true in the sense that it's not wholly inaccurate. Valuable and thoughtful posts are rewarded and up-voted. However, if my goal were to game the system for maximum karma per unit of time & post, I would contribute comments to hot-button issues that were in line with the prevailing mentality. This is not to be facetious at all. I'm sure the moderators are well aware of this, but it's quite astounding how many up-votes are thrown around in discussions on polarizing topics (e.g. gender issues, NSA surveillance, etc.).