One of the aspects of this site that I and presumably others appreciate about it is that we deal with real people and real situations. Whatever we answer, edit and even post is for the benefit of someone and those in similar situation that happen across later.
What concerns are there with allowing hypothetical questions? I can't speak for anyone else, but I would be less inclined to contribute to or answer a question if I felt it was of no real benefit to anyone. If this was a common opinion, we might end up with a greater number of unanswered or irrelevant questions. A recent site policy change also encourages users to cite personal experience, which an OP is less likely to find with the more outlandish questions that allowing hypothetical questions could invite. A hypothetical question may also be less likely to have meaningful additional information provided on it if asked. "What country is this happening in? The answer could vary based on it." "I don't know... Spain?" (as an example).
In short, I would be concerned that the quality and helpfulness of our posts would decrease.
Should we allow hypothetical questions? Despite my wording above, I think we should, but address them on a case-by-case basis. Would the following question be deemed hypothetical: "I would like to ask my friend why he observes an obscure religious event out of interest, how can I do so without sounding offensive or condescending?". One could argue it is a hypothetical event because it may or may not happen, nor do we know for certain if the OP is seriously planning on doing so. If, through providing more information and context, it becomes apparent that the event may not happen but the OP wants it to make it happen, it could be worthwhile answering it.
Are there hypothetical questions that we currently permit? I believe we have some questions where the OP is asking about a situation in retrospect, asking what they could have done better or differently. Again, these questions are helpful to others because the OP can provide context, info on a real scenario and of course, it might happen to someone else.
Overall, I'd be happy to encourage them, but to look at them individually. If any answer would be unhelpful to the OP and others, or if the situation is simply plucked from someone's imagination without any details or relevance, it ought to be deemed off-topic.
