Like John Stuart Mill, he would often begin by stating the other side better than its advocate had stated it himself.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Strong thinkers often understand and articulate opposing views better than their proponents do.
- In plain terms
- Intellectuals can state the other side's argument better than the other side can.
- What can you take from it?
- True understanding involves mastering opposing arguments.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How often do you understand the other side better than they do?
- Does this practice reduce polarization?
Another view
It assumes good faith and high intellect in all participants.
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