First off, go watch Feedbackula.  Johnny has some rather poignant things to say towards the last two minutes.

He also levels some well deserved indictments towards the community.

This linked content is a rehash (for which I apologize) of an older entry, but it could shed some light as to why the comment sections are overrun with a "certain kind" of participant.

To those who've tracked along with me over the years, you'll probably remember it.  To those who've come along after '11, here it is.

I can't help but think this contributed in some measure to the current state of this once-thriving and vibrant community.

As a side note, you will observe that all comments -- and yes, there were comments -- were erased upon implementation of Livefyre.