We have also identified another potential problem with the site: the high quality standard, heavy use of neologisms, and karma penalties for being wrong might be intimidating to newcomers.

Basically the quality of discussion that I didn't even dare to hope I could match was the reason I was so fascinated by this site when I first found it. Refraining from commenting was a natural step. Suggested methods in the post seem to have downside of leaving our garden undefended.

Maybe some sort of "Am I worthy enough to comment a LW post" FAQ could be better. That way encouragement to comment could be directed towards those who feel that they do understand basic concepts here, while others could be encouraged to read more.