If HN is "toxic" then you'll have to define the word toxic, because generally this is one of the best-behaved discussion forums on the internet. Even jokes get downvoted.

Agreed, I regularly have discussions with people who I disagree with here, good, informative ones that inform my perspectives and help me learn.

Even thoughtful, well articulated comments packed with critical thinking and citations get downvoted.

I mean, I work in tech, and even I find it very difficult to read the comments sections here on anything related to racial justice, gender equality, etc. People post nasty stuff and it gets upvoted to the top.

Have any examples?