It's the distinction between "this isn't the content I'd prefer to see at HN" and "this comment is abusive or inappropriate for the venue". Karma doesn't mean m

It's the distinction between "this isn't the content I'd prefer to see at HN" and "this comment is abusive or inappropriate for the venue". Karma doesn't mean much, and getting the occasional off-topic or vacuous comment downvoted is just a soft form of negative reinforcement.