On the other hand, it's the diversity of the users that make HN so much interesting. I've happened upon comments made from neurosurgeons, experts in carpeting, electrical engineers, naval architects, aerospace engineers etc. Where else on the Internet can you find such a diversified group of knowledgeable individuals where you can talk in a civilized manner? For me HN is the most significant place on the web and we must cherish it for what it offers.
Absolutely, diversity is incredibly important when we're talking about different kinds of "intellectually curious" people.
When diversity means letting in the trolls, the marketers and those less inclined to input constructively, that's when conversations start to degrade and loose value. Unfortunately, it's very difficult to encourage first type of diversity without becoming vulnerable to the second.
Only if you're a low-effort and obvious troll, which unfortunately there seem to be plenty of.
However, smart trolls (of which HN also has plenty) learn to adapt to the local culture. HN will often permit trolling as long as it's civil, and the mods won't ban an account that posts frequent troll comments if it also sometimes posts high quality comments.
