Rational brain · Logic, Epistemics & Argument
The Strawman Distortion
Restating your position as something weaker or more extreme, then defeating that; you end up defending a view you never held, and observers see you lose.
An everyday example
'So you're saying we should never invest in growth?' in reply to 'this campaign's numbers don't add up.'
What it can cost you
Arguing against the distortion; conceding ground on a position that was never yours.
Warning signs
- I am defending something more extreme than I believe.
- Their version of my view is easier to attack than mine.
One thing to do
Restate your actual position in one sentence and ask them to respond to that; refuse to defend the version they built.
Is this happening to you right now?
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