Earlier quoted context omitted.
There exists /r/programming and /r/coding and HN is still here. In my opinion the success or failure of a site like this depends whether or not it has enough traction to start a good community, which at the end is what makes the difference.
while i think it is a factor, i don't buy the whole 'good community' thing being as important as many here make it out to be.. i think hn benefits mainly from the fact its backed by some big-name influencers whose activities are highly relevant to its target audience. their presence is essentially a feature of the site that provides value beyond ‘link aggregation and discussion’.. it’s a differentiating feature, and…
I personally don't give a rat's ass about the influencers. I come here for the articles and general discussion.