You've learned to spot arguments and map their structure. Now comes the ultimate test: can you make someone else's argument better than they did?

This skill is called "steel-manning" - building the strongest possible version of another person's viewpoint.

Engagement Message

What is one positive outcome you gain when you fully grasp someone's strongest argument?

Steel-manning is the opposite of straw-manning. Instead of attacking a weakened version of someone's position, you strengthen their argument before responding.

This isn't about agreeing with them. It's about ensuring you're addressing their actual best case, not a caricature.

Engagement Message

Can you give one reason steel-manning can lead to better conversations?

Here's your four-step steel-manning protocol: Repeat, Clarify, Improve, Confirm.

Each step builds on the argument mapping skills you've practiced. But now you're not just understanding - you're actively strengthening their position.

Engagement Message

Which step do you think people most often skip?

Step 1: Repeat their argument in your own words. "So you're saying we should hire more staff because of missed deadlines, overtime, and quality issues."

This shows you heard their basic structure. But you're not done yet.

Engagement Message

What's the risk of stopping after just repeating?

Step 2: Clarify gaps or ambiguities. "When you say 'quality issues,' do you mean customer complaints or internal rework? And what timeframe are we discussing?"

Good clarifying questions strengthen their argument by filling in missing details.

Engagement Message

What's one clarifying question you could ask about the hiring example?

Step 3: Improve their argument. "You might also mention that stressed employees are more likely to quit, which would make the workload problem even worse."

You're adding supporting evidence they didn't think of. This takes real intellectual generosity.

Engagement Message

Why might offering improvements actually help you too?

Step 4: Confirm you've captured their strongest case. "Does this summary represent your view fairly? Have I missed anything important?"

This final check ensures you're responding to their actual position, not your interpretation of it.

Engagement Message

What could go wrong if you skip this confirmation step?

Type

Multiple Choice

Practice Question

Let's practice the steel-manning protocol! Your friend argues: "We should work from home because it saves commute time and reduces office costs."

Which of these responses best demonstrates steel-manning?

A. So you think remote work is always better than office work? B. You're saying remote work saves time and money, and it might also reduce sick days since people aren't sharing office germs. Does that capture your view? C. Remote work has too many disadvantages to consider. D. That's an interesting perspective on workplace flexibility.

Suggested Answers

• A
• B - Correct
• C
• D