I use the downvote button for two reasons: overwhelmingly for rude, come-uppance, and similar type of comments; very rarely for comments spreading FUD for no particular reason. I just downvoted your comment for the second reason.
Demanding transparency is fine but you’ve got to provide proof with your claims. If there are stories which feel manipulated to you link them and let the audience see, maybe you’re right.
I’m not saying you’re wrong I.e. manipulation probably does happen, my prior=0.4 bec. it happens inmost platforms so why not here (0.5) but AFAIk HN has strong anti manipulation tools&practices in places (-0.1). Show me examples so I can update my mental model.
Demanding transparency is fine but you’ve got to provide proof with your claims. If there are stories which feel manipulated to you link them and let the audience see, maybe you’re right.