Steelmanning: Discovering the Truth Through Empathy and Understanding

Hatched by Glasp
Aug 29, 2023
3 min read
1 views
Copy Link
Steelmanning: Discovering the Truth Through Empathy and Understanding
Introduction:
The concept of steelmanning, much like Socratic dialogue in Plato's Republic, encourages individuals to seek the truth by engaging with their opponents in a thoughtful and open-minded manner. While it may not be practical for everyday situations, steelmanning is particularly useful when discussing emotionally charged topics or when the pursuit of truth is of utmost importance. By understanding and empathizing with our opponents, we can uncover new perspectives and ultimately arrive at a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues.
1. Creating the Best Version of Your Counterpart's Argument:
In the words of philosopher John Stuart Mill, "He who knows only his own side of the case knows little of that." This quote highlights the importance of being open to opposing viewpoints and actively seeking to understand them. When engaging in a debate or discussion, it is crucial to treat the subject matter as if you were getting to know a new person or discovering a new culture. The more we feel disagreement with what we discover, the more our views are challenged, bringing us closer to a fuller understanding. Writing down our thoughts during this process also helps us structure our arguments and identify any weaknesses.
2. Helping Your Counterpart Steelman Their Argument:
To truly engage with our opponents and promote a meaningful exchange of ideas, we must help them strengthen their arguments. This does not mean that we have to agree with everything they say, but rather that we assist them in presenting the best possible case for their beliefs. Through this exercise, we gain a new perspective, seeing the world through their eyes. This step brings us one step closer to the truth and fosters a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding the issue at hand.
3. Arguing On Your Counterpart's Behalf:
In order to fully grasp the truth, we must understand the most compelling arguments on the opposite side. This requires us to immerse ourselves in their perspective, acknowledging and grappling with the difficulties and challenges they face. Motivated reasoning, the tendency to justify our own beliefs based on emotional desires, often hinders our ability to uncover the truth. By arguing on our counterpart's behalf, we challenge our own biases and engage in a more objective pursuit of knowledge.
Incorporating Glasp: The Social Highliner:
Glasp, a social network platform, offers an intriguing way to connect individuals based on their shared interests and highlights. Users can highlight and save web pages, creating a personalized list that can be easily accessed and shared with others. Glasp's unique feature allows users to follow others, discover similar interests, and engage in discussions. While language filters and selection options would further enhance the platform's usability, Glasp's attention to the user experience is commendable and reminiscent of the early days of the internet when enthusiasts gathered to discuss and share their passions.
Conclusion:
By combining the principles of steelmanning with the innovative platform of Glasp, we can foster a more empathetic and open-minded approach to discussions and debates. The act of steelmanning encourages us to understand and engage with opposing viewpoints, ultimately leading to a greater understanding of complex issues and a more comprehensive pursuit of the truth. To incorporate this approach into our lives, we can:
- 1. Practice active listening and empathy when engaging in debates or discussions.
- 2. Seek out diverse perspectives and actively challenge our own biases.
- 3. Utilize platforms like Glasp to connect with individuals who share our interests and engage in meaningful discussions.
Through these actionable steps, we can contribute to a more inclusive and truth-seeking society.
Resource:
Copy Link