zlacker

> Thoughtful, evidence-based discussion should never be discouraged or deemed off-topic - no matter how sensitive the topic.

Off-topic has nothing to do with the sensitivity of the topic or the current social mores. It has to do with not being on topic.

>>reific+(OP)
Not to mention, it always becomes a dumpster fire. It is going to devolve because too much emotional baggage comes in with it, I am guilty of it, and every reader on HN is guilty of it. There are plenty of other outlets to vent ones political frustrations. It just poisons the pool here and is better left out. If someone really needs that outlet, Facebook is just a click away.

It is near impossible for a group to have a rational discussion about politics or religion. So it is better to just avoid the topic on a forum that values, pleasantry and support of one another as core values.

>>kls+T9
I'm not even specifying a topic.

I'm saying there's benefit to moderating off topic discussions regardless of the nature of said content.