steelman

Everyday

1. To steelman someone's argument is to describe it in its strongest, fairest form before you answer it, even if you disagree. tree →
2. A steelman is that strongest version of the other side's argument. tree →
3. (rare, old) A steelman can also be a man who works making steel. tree →

In the lessons

In ethics, debate and philosophy lessons steelmanning is a fair way to argue: the opposite of a «straw man», where you twist the other side's view to make it easy to knock down. It shows respect and helps you think clearly. Phrases: steelman the argument, steelman the other side.

Examples

• Before you disagree, try to steelman your friend's idea. tree →
• Let's steelman the argument for a longer school day. tree →
• She steelmanned the other team's point so well that they thanked her. tree →
• A straw man makes the other side look silly; a steelman makes it look its best. tree →
• In our debate club we must steelman before we argue back. tree →
• Can you steelman why some people want to ban phones in schools? tree →
• Steelmanning helps you find the truth instead of just winning. tree →

Note

It is a newer, informal word made as the opposite of «straw man». Spelling: steelmanned, steelmanning (double n is common). Not used in maths.