I think hn needs a concept like r/bestof. It's the only way I get to find the really good user content in Reddit. There's no way I'd see most of that stuff otherwise.

In fact the main reason I read hn comments is the hope of finding comment gems posted by an expert in the field, someone with a unique perspective on an issue, or someone with a heretical but plausible idea.

Only in name, rather than action. Bestof basically functions as a massive sanctioned voting brigade.

(and I did mention outliers)