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>I think that downvotes should require a comment explaining why the downvote.

The problem with this desire is that it presumes competence. It is based upon the idea that everybody attempts to be a worthy contributor, and that every attempt is deserving of a proper critique.

This simply isn't the case. For many posts, a downvote is the best it deserves; an explanation of the root of its stupidity serves only to detract from the conversation at large.



It would be possible to have an optional "reason"-field though. I don't think that's a bad idea really.


The "reason" field is the reply link. If the downvote deserves an explanation, then it should be public for the benefit of the reader.




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