You can think about it in any way, the "score" is just a representation of a connection. Meaning, you only see replies from people who are connected through a follow, some x degrees of separation.
Discussion
Why would mute lists that can be subscribed to created by users not be enough ??? 👀
Mute lists are good I think, but I doubt they would catch random asshole comments if they don't use random asshole terminology that's not on the list, or misspell on purpose.
Low scoring notes could be "below the fold" to remain hidden unless a user wants to go into the wilds?