Very simple logic. He's in a position where he can lie. Conflict of interest. He's paid by the company who sponsors this news site. Why can't you get this simple logic through your head?
>You said he only downweights for one reason.
Please read my post. I said what I meant WAS THIS: The only thing Dang can say is that when he downweights posts he can only SAY that he does so in the interest of the HN community. That's it. Mainly the point is because this is ONLY what he can SAY (keyword) you can't trust what he says, because of a CONFLICT of INTEREST. Get it? Take note I capitalized some words for emphasis to help you understand exactly what I'm saying. The language I use is specific and exact.
>You're not addressing the point.
I am addressing the point. The point is I'm not wrong at all and I'm telling you why. That's really all you need to get through your head.
>What he did in this specific case? Different matter.
What he did in this specific case IS ENTIRELY the point. It is NOT a different matter. ANY thing off this point is off topic. My initial post is completely and only addressing the point. I think your mind is wandering from point to point not latching on the main topic.
>What he does as a matter of both stated policy and declared intent and I would suggest, evidence is different. He downweights for a range of reasons.
Your suggestion is noted. And I suggest there's a conflict of interest here. There.