I don't fully agree with this sentiment. There have been plenty of times where comment sections have pointed out additional context/bad and/or missing information on articles that I wouldn't have otherwise known about. But on the other hand, they also can lead to cultivating echo chambers, as already mentioned. I think the best way to combat this is to teach people how to better recognize internal biases/prejudices and circle jerking, AKA some form of critical thinking.

Like social media, like AI, like air travel, like all things of this nature, comment sections are just a tool. The problem as always lies with our inability to figure out what tool is right for what situation and what job without an incredibly frustrating period of painful trial and error first, it seems.

phpBB was a mistake.

I need an Instagram fork with the comments removed, I am too weak to avoid them on my own.