I have noticed that the influx of new users around each YC application deadline coincides with a slew of less intellectual topics. I have assumed this is b/c not all founders (or aspiring founders) are particularly intellectual.
Sometimes intellectual pursuits in a business context lead to excessive yak shaving. Some of the most capable entrepreneurs I know don't have a stomach for the kind of intellectual banter that Matt idealizes (and I very much enjoy).
In the lulls between YC application deadlines, HN shines. Everyone is busy working on their project and people are more likely to speak from passion, insight, etc., than out of the competitive, aspirational mindset that they feel after getting accepted or rejected from YC (or dreading/awaiting one of the two).
Sometimes intellectual pursuits in a business context lead to excessive yak shaving. Some of the most capable entrepreneurs I know don't have a stomach for the kind of intellectual banter that Matt idealizes (and I very much enjoy).
In the lulls between YC application deadlines, HN shines. Everyone is busy working on their project and people are more likely to speak from passion, insight, etc., than out of the competitive, aspirational mindset that they feel after getting accepted or rejected from YC (or dreading/awaiting one of the two).