Steelman

Purpose

A critique is invalid if it attacks a weaker version than the other side would defend. This skill forces fair disagreement.

Activate when

Use this skill when:

• positions are being caricatured
• debate quality is falling
• a team must compare options fairly
• a minority view needs accurate preservation before rejection

Rules for strongest-form restatement

• state the position as its defender would recognize it
• include the values or risks that position is protecting
• do not smuggle critique into the restatement
• make the strongest practical version, not a fantasy version

Invalid critique patterns

Do not:

• exaggerate the view into absurdity
• replace its strongest reason with its weakest slogan