I’m not the person you’re replying to but I do think anyone who comes to HN to discuss primarily one narrow (and politically contentious) topic isn’t participating in HN in good faith. There’s no effort to “gratify one’s intellectual curiosity” or “have curious conversation” if you’ve arrived with an agenda.

Fair enough, but you don't think we all come to HN with agendas?

Because you know the links I click on. Or maybe, and I know this is crazy, but maybe this isn't my primary account as people have been mobbed and cancelled for having contrarian views on Covid!

He is saying I am either a troll or a pawn.

>He is saying I am either a troll or a pawn.

I didn't interpret that comment the same way at all.

I think the gist of it can be summed up by (purportedly) Winston Churchill:

"A fanatic is one who can't change his mind and won't change the subject."

If, as you suggest, you're using a semi-throwaway account specifically to discuss COVID, unless other folks know that, your posting history with this account would likely give that impression.