Compare the reaction to Alicorn's later 'Polyhacking' piece which was far more positive than reactions to either versions 1 or 2.

Possible explanations:

• It was a top level post, and she hadn't explicitly asked for detailed criticism so people felt less inclined to criticise, and/or were not primed to think negatively.
• The articles focus was more narrow and detailed, and thus didn't have the issues that arise from compressing a lot of information into a small space.
• It was also generally more polished as it was not a work in progress article but a complete one, so presumably had flaws in earlier drafts that were corrected.
• Less charitable explanations: Alicorn's article set off a lot of applause/aww lights (mine included) by focusing in detail on personal affection, whereas this article apparently 'skeeved out' some people because of its seemingly detached/cold attitude to interpersonal relationships.
• It is also possible (though I would assert it as definite) that commenters here share cultural tropes/background that make us better disposed to something like this coming from a woman than man.