There are enough places where these topics can be discussed. I come to HN because it is sort of a sanctuary from the madness of other social media sites.
You seem to think that the civil discussion that occurs here would carry over to these hot button topics, but I assure you that the kind of people who enjoy dragging a discussion down into the mud and participating in “flame wars” as you said will be attracted here once they know there is a discussion about one of their favorite issues.
In short, the curation of HN is what makes it great. Relaxing it would ruin this place.
You seem to think that the civil discussion that occurs here would carry over to these hot button topics, but I assure you that the kind of people who enjoy dragging a discussion down into the mud and participating in “flame wars” as you said will be attracted here once they know there is a discussion about one of their favorite issues.
In short, the curation of HN is what makes it great. Relaxing it would ruin this place.