Steelmanning: How to Discover the Truth by Helping Your Opponent

Steelmanning: How to Discover the Truth by Helping Your Opponent

In the pursuit of truth, it is essential that we challenge our own beliefs and engage in meaningful dialogue with those who hold opposing viewpoints. This concept, known as steelmanning, is a powerful tool that allows us to uncover the truth by helping our opponents craft the best possible version of their argument. Reminiscent of Plato's Republic and Socratic dialogue, steelmanning encourages us to approach discussions with an open mind and a willingness to truly understand the perspectives of others.

Steelmanning is the antithesis of strawmanning, which involves misrepresenting a position to make it easier to attack. Instead, steelmanning requires us to take an existing counter position and strengthen it to its utmost potential. While devil's advocacy can be a fun exercise in contrarian thinking, steelmanning demands a higher level of willpower and empathy.

The first step in steelmanning is to create the best version of your counterpart's argument. By doing so, we gain a deeper understanding of their perspective and challenge our own preconceived notions. John Stuart Mill eloquently stated, "If he is equally unable to refute the reasons on the opposite side, if he does not so much as know what they are, he has no ground for preferring either opinion." Treating a contentious subject as if we were getting to know a new person or discovering a new culture allows us to expand our horizons and approach the truth with an open mind. Writing down our thoughts further helps us structure our arguments and identify any weaknesses in our reasoning.

The second step in steelmanning is to help your counterpart steelman their own argument. This involves assisting them in crafting the strongest version of their position, even if we do not agree with it ourselves. By doing so, we gain valuable insight into their perspective and see the world through their eyes. This process brings us one step closer to the truth, as we begin to understand the forces that shape differing viewpoints.

Arguing on your counterpart's behalf is the third step in the steelmanning process. As John Stuart Mill noted, "He must know [the reasons on the opposite side] in their most plausible and persuasive form; he must feel the whole force of the difficulty which the true view of the subject has to encounter and dispose of; else he will never really possess himself of the portion of truth which meets and removes that difficulty." By advocating for their position, we not only strengthen our own understanding but also challenge our own biases and motivations. Motivated reasoning, our tendency to justify positions that align with our emotional desires, often blinds us to the truth. Engaging in steelmanning helps us overcome this bias and strive for a more objective understanding.

In the realm of building the future, Mark Zuckerberg emphasized the importance of connection and being data-informed. He recognized that one missing element at the time was people, the very essence of connection. Building a successful product requires continuous improvement based on data-driven insights. Zuckerberg's advice to not start a company until you're sure it is something resonates with the idea of steelmanning. By thoroughly understanding and refining our ideas, we can build a stronger foundation for success.

In a rapidly changing world, the biggest risk is not taking any risks. Zuckerberg's insight aligns with the spirit of steelmanning, which challenges us to step outside of our comfort zones and engage in difficult conversations. By embracing the unknown and being open to new perspectives, we increase our chances of uncovering the truth and building a better future.

In conclusion, steelmanning is a powerful technique that allows us to discover the truth by helping our opponents craft the best possible version of their argument. By creating a strong and empathetic dialogue, we challenge our own beliefs and gain a deeper understanding of differing perspectives. To incorporate steelmanning into our lives, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Treat contentious subjects as an opportunity for growth and discovery. Approach them with an open mind and a willingness to challenge your own beliefs. Write down your thoughts to better structure your arguments and identify any weaknesses.

2. Assist your counterpart in steelmanning their own argument. Help them craft the strongest version of their position, even if you do not agree with it. By doing so, you gain valuable insights into their perspective and move closer to the truth.

3. Advocate for your counterpart's position. Understand the reasons on the opposite side in their most plausible form. By arguing on their behalf, you strengthen your own understanding and challenge your own biases.

By incorporating these practices into our lives, we can foster a more inclusive and truth-seeking society. The pursuit of truth requires humility, empathy, and a genuine curiosity to understand differing viewpoints. Through steelmanning, we can build bridges of understanding and work towards a future grounded in facts and mutual respect.