The discussion focuses on alternative methods to handle visibility of elements on a webpage without relying on JavaScript. One major point is the use of the HTML hidden attribute, which allows elements to be hidden without any JavaScript intervention. Additionally, CSS media queries can be utilized to detect the availability of scripting and conditionally apply styles. The comments highlight a growing concern within the web development community regarding the over-reliance on JavaScript, with some expressing frustrations about sites that require it to function properly. The evolution of web standards and developer practices are also debated, indicating a shift away from progressive enhancement principles, with some developers resigning to the fact that JavaScript is often expected by default in many web applications.