All possible. However, if you can explain anything, the explanation counts for nothing. The question is which explanation is the most likely, and “there is evidence for fair-mindedness (but it is mostly fake!)” is more contrived than “there is evidence for fair-mindedness”, as an explanation for the upvotes of OP.
I’m a regular, and I was impressed with it. Many other regulars have also said positive things about it, so possible explanation 1 is out. And unless I’m outright lying to you, 2, if true, would have to be entirely subconscious.
eg:
It’s not being upvoted by regulars/believers. It’s a magnet for dissidents, and transient visitors with negative perceptions of SI.
It’s high-profile,so it needs to be upvoted to put on a show of fair-mindedness.
All possible. However, if you can explain anything, the explanation counts for nothing. The question is which explanation is the most likely, and “there is evidence for fair-mindedness (but it is mostly fake!)” is more contrived than “there is evidence for fair-mindedness”, as an explanation for the upvotes of OP.
Yeah. But there’s also evidence of unfair-mindedness.
And some evidence for fair-mindedness.
I’m a regular, and I was impressed with it. Many other regulars have also said positive things about it, so possible explanation 1 is out. And unless I’m outright lying to you, 2, if true, would have to be entirely subconscious.