Steelman the Opposite View
Added 2026-10-30
Before committing, have the model build the strongest version of the opposing case and see whether your position survives.
I have a position on an issue and will state it. First do one thing only: build the strongest possible version of the opposing case — their best evidence, their most defensible value ordering, and the question that hurts my side most. Then tell me which single point would most likely move a rational person like me. Do not judge who is right and do not offer a compromise.
Site original
Chinese original
How to use
先把对手说到最强，再决定要不要坚持。
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.