Author here. I get your point about general comment negativity. But I've also received great feedback over the years (it wasn't 1% of all comments). People pointing out errors or out-of-date information, suggesting new ideas or simply saying "thanks". Using any comment system over email is still the preferred way for most people (based on my own comments/emails I receive). Even you decided to write this as a HN comment for everyone to read and discuss instead of sending me an email. And I think that's a good thing!