If geeks have one character flaw that holds them back it's the need to understand everything in excruciating detail. In the real world you can't possibly learn enough to engage in informed debates on every topic, however understanding human nature and paying attention to whose interests are served by what ideas will get you a lot of mileage for minimal effort. Maybe the GP isn't a great thought-provoking HN comment, but it's definitely something that should be in the back of our minds.