One of the things I enjoy most about Hacker News, is the level of discussion.
I would define ‘level’ in this case to mean:
1) Generally, discussions are analytical, emphasising reasoning and evidence
2) Submissions and discussions deal with topics that are intellectually stimulating
3) Many commenters show a high level of expertise around a topic - these comments often float to the top
4) For the most part, people are civil. Those who are uncivil are usually downvoted
Admittedly, this is much easier to foster with a community discussing technology, science and math (with a sprinkling of news/current affairs)
I often use HN as my ‘filter’ to decide what is interesting, and to observe and engage in discussions that offer multiple perspectives on a topic. It’s a much better filter than a social media news feed.
I’d like to find other intellectually stimulating communities - perhaps with a broader range of topics under discussion than the technology/science bent of HN, but having a similar ‘level’ of discussion.
Here is a good example;
Bobtheoilguy - Forum dedicated to automotive lubricants. Some very in depth analysis and company insiders on occasion. Many users regularly send in oil for testing and post results. Great for info on the changing formulations of oil standards, and common additive packages. Very useful for me, owning old and new cars and bikes.