• Cris@lemmy.world
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    0
    ·
    1 month ago

    Earnest question- what is it supposed to be used for? I don’t downvote people very often, but I think I’ve only ever seen it used express approval or disapproval so that the score reflects community sentiment

    How is it supposed to be used?

    • HereIAm@lemmy.world
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      1
      ·
      1 month ago

      In addition to what others said, in comments the down vote is meant to be used on comments that don’t further discussion in good faith.

      I used to subscribe to that idea, but I’ve since changed my mind. If the far majority use upvotes to mean agreement, then me upvoting a controversial, but well structured, opinion will likely be viewed as agreement as well.

      It’s a nice idea to think the voting system is meant to promote discussion, instead of homogenise opinions in a community.