If you're doing anything vaguely resembling moderation, or have some sort of reputation to maintain, then every on-line comment comes with costs & benefits.
Fairly sparse comments on fairly-routine stories are generally a good thing. Occasional commenters may add details to the story, and a few random comments can at least look good.
Vs. reams of posting-in-anger comments on some hot-button story? Huge cost, and minimal-at-best potential upside. Let 'em scream on someone else's site.
Comments
If you're doing anything vaguely resembling moderation, or have some sort of reputation to maintain, then every on-line comment comes with costs & benefits.
Fairly sparse comments on fairly-routine stories are generally a good thing. Occasional commenters may add details to the story, and a few random comments can at least look good.
Vs. reams of posting-in-anger comments on some hot-button story? Huge cost, and minimal-at-best potential upside. Let 'em scream on someone else's site.