Another case of the linkless martyr.

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=14694045

No "leader of YC" I know would value their time so miserably as to spend it that way (or be so dumb as to feed every troll forever).

It's a repeat of this claim: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=9892966

That's not the same claim. I've had people contact "my employer" for HN comments, for instance about Javascript cryptography. But nobody from YC has ever done that. That would be silly.

Only peripherally related to op's accusation but didn't YC get accused of running a blacklist based on unproven accusations recently? Can you reassure me that this story was also without basis?

[citation needed], because you're making a serious accusation now.

You commented on HN? If this is true, it sounds like a major breach of privacy here.

It is crazy to use your real name to comment on stuff. I limit my real name to GitHub, and even there I always try to comment on stuff like a robot would.

I don't know why you're downvoted, this is literally the first thing we were told about the internet - don't put your real name online. Today you kind of have to, for most things, but generally you should try to minimise the stuff you post attached to your real name as much as possible.

People are also told to have their work on github and build their personal brand on social media.

Perhaps it's possible that there's more than one source of advice?

Exactly. I was told the "personal brand" advice, too.

And if you look around - even on HN - there's plenty of people who seem to have got the same idea.

You may be right from the practical perspective. As a matter of principle I refuse to cower and slink around the internet. If I am judged, maligned, or inconvenienced by people's opinions of what I say, then so be it. At least I can say I didn't spend every day in moral retreat as the loudest people get their way.

I am Aaron Muir Hamilton and I'm not afraid of words.

I respect your stance. However, it is also clear that you haven't been under fire yet :)

As long as your intentions are unmistakably pure, the coals don't feel so hot as you're raked over them.

I approve of shedding anonymity (in most cases) but I'll also note that the road to Hell is paved with good intentions.