I think people are making some interesting proposals. I have a controversial view: maybe things aren't that bad? I usually see nasty comments downvoted. We want civility but I don't think anyone wants Stackoverflow level sterility.

Also I think the community still praises and gives great self-esteem boosting comments. I can't tell you how many postings of "look at me project" that seem like 3 hour mashups for which I don't undestand the point at all, but the comments will have snark at all. Of course, this is just my anecdote.