There is far too much conviction in the world. One of the reasons HN is so enjoyable is that the discussions tend to avoid the heat that you can find just about anywhere else.
I can appreciate that, but empirically we know from long experience that such comments lead to downward spirals. That's why the site guidelines are the way they are; it isn't to dampen conviction.
so, if i'd noticed you were dang before i responded i probably wouldn't have. only because i was trying to form a consensus. i didn't realize the consensus was being explained to me. :)