How to criticize something you disagree with
Here are social psychologist Anatol Rapoport’s rules for criticizing something:
- You should attempt to re-express your target’s position so clearly, vividly, and fairly that your target says, “Thanks, I wish I’d thought of putting it that way.” 
- You should list any points of agreement (especially if they are not matters of general or widespread agreement). 
- You should mention anything you have learned from your target. 
- Only then are you permitted to say so much as a word of rebuttal or criticism. 
Via Intuition Pumps And Other Tools for Thinking, by Daniel C. Dennett. — MF
