It can be helpful to have an understanding of someone’s background and expertise. Talking to a subject matter expert is much different from an undergrad with an opinion. Looking at prior comment helps give a sense of who you are speaking with.

It's called getting context and generally a good idea.

I've seen this particular user's comments frequently enough that their username clicked in my mind. I promise you I don't have the time to go through everyone's post history.

My apologies.