> why do they have downvotes but can't actually use them? Like all absurd rules of this nature, the reason it exists is to assert power over you and train you into submission. Like putting a treat on a dog's nose, and then telling it not to eat it. And wait. And wait. Not yet. Now you may eat it. Good dog. You do it partly for your own amusement, and partly to make sure the dog knows who is boss. This helps train the dog to follow your orders without question. A welcome side-effect of which is that the dog will growl and become hostile against anyone who dares stand up to you henceforth. *"How dare this stranger question my master's rules,"* the dog might think, if dogs thought of such things, *"when I am such a* ***good boy*** *and always follow my orders and do as I'm told!"* Imposing absurd and nonsensical rules, and getting your subjects to quarrel among each other over them, is the bread and butter of subjugating people. Being forced to pretend that things you know to be false are true, and things you know to be true are false, and to play along with the charade, for fear of being attacked or sold out by your peers, is extremely humiliating and demoralizing. Takes the fight right out of people. Many even convince themselves to double down and become extra loyal subjects just to cope with it. Because most would rather be the submissive good dog, than be beaten and left out in the cold. Even though out in the cold is the only place they might have found freedom. Commie's love this tactic. As do bullies and tyrants of all shapes and sizes.