>> Hackernews is simultaneously the most cantankerous and, imho, highest quality response

In other words, exactly what the internet was and (for people like me) hoped it would continue to be. I don't think it's entirely the moderation (though that certainly helps) but somehow the conceptual integrity has been maintained and has a powerful shaping force.

I never completely agree with the content and opinions, but we all seem really well aligned with the rules of the game.