I didn't say avoid discussion, I said avoid flamewar. You could start by dropping snark, name-calling, and cheap shots.
The idea that "the topic made me do it", i.e. that the appearance of some topic compels internet commenters to sink straightaway into internet dreck, is unconvincing. On HN, we want thoughtful, substantive, respectful conversation. Other users are doing it, so it's clearly doable.
