Test How Far an Analogy Travels
Added 2026-11-05
Analogies help people understand; they do not prove anything.
I plan to use this analogy to persuade myself or someone else: [analogy]. Pressure-test it: 1) split the two sides into object, relation, and mechanism, and say which layer actually matches; 2) list the premises the analogy depends on and mark which ones fail here; 3) give a counter-case with the same structure but the opposite conclusion; 4) name the furthest point the analogy can carry and where it must stop; 5) if it breaks, offer a replacement that tracks the mechanism more closely. Do not start with a verdict on whether it is a good analogy.
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[analogy]
How to use
An analogy earns its keep by explaining, not proving. The step where it crosses the line is usually where the argument begins.
Try tweaking it
- Ask what evidence would overturn the judgement.
- Have it argue both sides with three reasons each.
What you should get
- A decision table: assumptions, evidence, counter-evidence
- A next action with an observable signal
Common mistakes
- Asking only "should I?" and getting equally valid answers both ways.
- Never asking for counter-examples, so you only hear support.
How to check the output
- It states what evidence would overturn the conclusion.
- Both sides are argued, with assumptions marked as such.
Where it works
- Good for: splitting a decision into assumptions, evidence and counter-cases, leaving the call to you.
- Watch out: ask what evidence would overturn the judgement, or you will only hear supporting reasons.