The no-politics norm isn’t just on LW; it’s widespread. But these norms are a defensive adaptation, and I don’t think they can be dropped safely.
Instead, I think we should have a designated politics day, on which all no-discussing-politics taboos are lifted in all contexts, and people who normally avoid politics are encouraged to post position papers. I think this would produce most of the benefits of talking about politics, while limiting the damage.
The no-politics norm isn’t just on LW; it’s widespread. But these norms are a defensive adaptation, and I don’t think they can be dropped safely.
Instead, I think we should have a designated politics day, on which all no-discussing-politics taboos are lifted in all contexts, and people who normally avoid politics are encouraged to post position papers. I think this would produce most of the benefits of talking about politics, while limiting the damage.