@philosophyminis: A straw man is when you take somebody's argument and you make it so simplistic, or so exaggerated, that it makes for an easier target. For example, if an #atheist says that #Christianity is just worshipping some bearded man in the sky, well, that's a straw man, because barely any #Christian would accept that representation of their #religion . But the opposite of a #strawman is a steel man. And according to the late Daniel Dennett, it's one of the key ingredients for a good philosophical discussion. In 2013, #Dennett presented four rules for any good #philosophical debate. The first, and most important, is that you should 'attempt to express your target's position so clearly, vividly, and fairly that your target says things "I wish I thought of putting it that way."' Second, you should list all of the ways in which you and your partner agree on things. Third, you should recognise the ways in which your partner has taught you something new. And fourth, only then can you rebut or criticise their position. Key to all of this is to treat your opponent and their position with respect. If you read Plato's dialogues, you'll note that Socrates always presents his opponents with a steel man argument. A huge part of the dialogue involves #Socrates clarifying, laying out, and even strengthening the other person's position. Because what #Plato and Dennett both knew is that if you are to actually grow in your beliefs, we have to see #debate as a constructive act, and with good intentions. Debates are not adversarial opportunities to make your opponent look like an idiot. They are opportunities in which we can all become better, and grow.

Jonny Thomson

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Saturday 10 May 2025 14:15:00 GMT