Discussion»Statements»Rosie's Corner» Yin and Yang are essential to keep balance in the world. I expect that is what Devil's Advocates do. Balance things out. Are you one?
I do use Devil 's Advocacy sometimes to try to see or explain the opposing view or action, so it can help balance debates; but it does not itself make the user neutral.
That's what is so puzzling to me Durdle. You may well agree with someone's view but you take the opposite view just for mental stimulation or exercise I expect. If you REALLY believe what you say then you are not a Devil's Advocate. At least in my understanding of it. To be a good debater you have to be able to do it. To be a good lawyer you would have to be able to do it too. Argue a point you do not necessarily share and argue it so convincingly you win. That's why I'd make a lousy lawyer. I doubt that I could argue anything convincingly in which I did not wholeheartedly believe. Once upon a time many decades ago I started Law School. Folks would tell me "you'd make a good lawyer" so I took a flyer. I think it was the Southwest Law School in L.A. Not a top school by any means. I lasted a month and then realized it was not and never would be my cuppa tea. I cannot argue anything in which I do not believe. It's just not in me. I do appreciate it when I encounter one though it can be annoying. It forces you to see "the other side" and there is merit in that. Thank you for your reply! :)
Durdle 