Because to me, they seem like de facto "Agree and “Disagree” buttons, whether or not it was the intent.

  • Bezier
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    1413 days ago

    Do you mean by seem that people here seem to use them like that, or that they just seem like that to you?

    I try to reserve downvotes for people who are actively harming the discussion. Downvoting good comments just because you disagree is pretty shit behaviour, and I guess the same could be said about upvoting bad comments because you agree with the opinion.

    • I think this is the best answer?

      I’ll also suggest that downvotes can be used for something that is actively wrong, as in deliberate, but I think it’s abused for people who may be ignorantly wrong but not maliciously so. Once the downvote train starts sometimes people can’t catch a break even if they make amends. Really does a disservice and disincentivizes to people’s ability to admit being wrong or learn something new.

      • Bezier
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        313 days ago

        people who may be ignorantly wrong but not maliciously so.

        I think this one is a bit blurry anyway. If the person had every chance to learn, it’s on them.

        • Yeah, on the internet it’s really hard to tell if someone just doesn’t get it, is trolling, or is maliciously ignorant. Sometimes a quick check of their recent comments can reveal their MO and tell you who they are.