Disagreement Hierarchy
Disagree Well
The Disagreement Hierarchy is a framework for evaluating and improving the quality of disagreements in conversations. It consists of seven levels, ranging from name-calling (DH0) to refuting the central point (DH6). The hierarchy helps people to identify the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments and to strive for more convincing and respectful disagreements.
- Disagreements should be based on the argument, not the person making it.
- A good disagreement should be based on evidence and reasoning, not just assertion or tone.
- The goal of a disagreement should be to understand and refute the opposing argument, not just to win or be right.
- Identify the Level of DisagreementDetermine which level of the hierarchy the disagreement is at, from name-calling (DH0) to refuting the central point (DH6).Pro tipBe honest with yourself about the level of your disagreement, and strive to move up the hierarchy.WarningBe aware that disagreements can be complex and nuanced, and may involve multiple levels of the hierarchy.
- Understand the Opposing ArgumentTake the time to understand the opposing argument, including its strengths and weaknesses. Look for evidence and reasoning to support or refute the argument.Pro tipTry to see things from the other person's perspective, and be willing to change your mind if presented with compelling evidence or arguments.WarningBe careful not to straw man or misrepresent the opposing argument.
- Respond with a CounterargumentRespond to the opposing argument with a counterargument that is based on evidence and reasoning. Avoid ad hominem attacks, tone-based disagreements, and other low-level forms of disagreement.Pro tipUse the hierarchy to guide your response, and strive to move up the levels as you engage in the disagreement.WarningBe aware that counterarguments can be complex and nuanced, and may involve multiple levels of the hierarchy.
- Refute the Central PointIf possible, refute the central point of the opposing argument. This is the most convincing form of disagreement, and requires a deep understanding of the argument and its weaknesses.Pro tipBe careful to identify the central point of the argument, and to refute it in a clear and convincing way.WarningBe aware that refuting the central point can be challenging, and may require a significant amount of evidence and reasoning.
Two people are discussing a topic online, and one person makes a claim that the other person disagrees with. The disagreeing person responds with a counterargument that is based on evidence and reasoning, and the two people engage in a productive and respectful disagreement.
Two people are discussing a topic online, and one person makes a claim that the other person disagrees with. The disagreeing person responds with a name-calling attack, and the two people engage in an unproductive and disrespectful disagreement.
The Disagreement Hierarchy was developed by Paul Graham as a way to improve the quality of online conversations. Graham observed that the web was turning writing into a conversation, and that many people were disagreeing with each other in unproductive and unconvincing ways. He created the hierarchy as a tool to help people evaluate and improve their arguments.