Perhaps HN attracts many gifted folks? Would that be so unexpected? The level of discourse is quite high.
Is this a joke?
The idea that the level of discourse on HN is high? Compared to say, Reddit? Or YouTube comments? No, not a joke. It's my perception that many of the folks participating on HN are, well, both gifted and engaged in the world. Do you disagree?
Not relevant here. I am not sure if you read the article.