That is the argument by which design becomes regarded as frivolous.
Frivolity has it's place in life. But it is only a subset of design.
Therefore, I think it's ok to disparage articles on the silly aspects of design, when posted to HN, especially when they're met with religious battle type fervent loyalty.
Ignoring any aspect of design will make you look frivolous. Yes, exploring trends are a subset of design but they are just as important as any other aspect of design.
When I'm asked to design something of course I test and make sure it's functional. But I equally make sure it's current and appeals to whoever it should be selling to. Both are important - neither are frivolous.
Frivolity has it's place in life. But it is only a subset of design.
Therefore, I think it's ok to disparage articles on the silly aspects of design, when posted to HN, especially when they're met with religious battle type fervent loyalty.