From FAQs here, https://stacker.news/faq#what-is-stacker-news But don't just take @k00b's words for it. Read between the lines, and look beyond the sats.

The real definition of SN, may be far beyond what you thought it is

SN is far more than just a forum where you can earn sats for posting or curating content, it’s a training ground for personal sovereignty. Yes, the sats are real and redeemable, unlike Reddit’s karma or Hacker News upvotes. But the sats are merely a by-product, not the mission. The true purpose is to sharpen your ability to create value, think critically, and engage in a proof-of-work culture.

And having enjoying different great and powerful posts and comments such as:

The zen of stacking sats, here, #184545

The art of using SN, here, #252695

The zen and the art of posting on SN, here, #1069786

The art of using SN part 2, here, #392551 There's one great lesson and reminder that the sats isn't the goal.

Too many newcomers approach SN like a quick-win lottery—chasing free sats without genuine contribution. That mindset not only leads to low-effort posts but also opens the door to impersonation and scams by fiat fiat-minded assmilkers. It misses the deeper opportunity: learning how to live, think, and transact outside the matrix.

Each post, comment, or zap on SN is a micro-exercise in economic freedom. You’re practicing how to exchange value directly, without middlemen. You’re building trust through reputation earned over time, not bought or faked. The sats you earn are simply the scoreboard; the real prize is mastering the mindset and skills to operate in a world where individuals regain freedom and sovereignty.

If you come for sats, you may leave with pennies. If you come for knowledge, you may leave with freedom.