Argue the Best Version of the Other Side
It's easy to win an argument by picking the weakest version of the opposing view, and it teaches you nothing. Steelmanning does the reverse: you state the other position so well that its supporters would say, 'Yes, that's exactly what we think.'
How to Steelman
- Restate their view in your own words and ask if you've got it right.
- Find the strongest reason a thoughtful person might hold it.
- Only then say where you disagree, and why.
Understanding Comes Before Judgement
If your view survives the strongest opposition, it's sturdier. If it doesn't, you've learned something worth knowing.