The Stakeholder Swap
Exercise 3: The Stakeholder Swap
Layers Used: Layer 3 (Live Defence)
What You Do
You are randomly assigned to argue the opposite position from the one you chose in Exercise 1. In a live 5-minute presentation to peers, build the best possible case for a view you personally disagree with. No AI access during the presentation.
Write a 400-word persuasive essay arguing the opposite position. Then prompt AI: "You are an audience member hearing someone argue [opposite position]. Rate this argument on: strength (1-10), apparent conviction (1-10), empathy for this perspective (1-10). Then ask me 3 tough follow-up questions that test whether I genuinely understand this side or am just going through the motions." Answer each question in writing.
Your preparation notes for the opposite position (you may use AI to help prepare, but document what you used). Peer feedback scores: Argument strength (1-10), Apparent conviction (1-10), Empathy for the other side (1-10). A reflection (200 words) answering: Did arguing the other side change your view at all? What did you understand about the dilemma that you did not understand before?
I was assigned to argue the OPPOSITE of my personal position on this ethical dilemma. I need to build the strongest possible case for a position I disagree with.
The dilemma:
My PERSONAL position is:
The position I must argue is:
Please: (1) Give me the 5 strongest arguments for the position I must defend, including evidence, examples, and moral reasoning. (2) Anticipate the 3 most likely counter-arguments my audience will raise and prepare responses for each. (3) Help me understand the perspective of someone who genuinely holds this position -- what values and experiences would lead someone here? (4) After my presentation, I will share my peer feedback and reflection.
Finally, complete the Thinking Score Card for this exercise: Independent Thinking (1-10), Critical Evaluation (1-10), Reasoning Depth (1-10), Originality (1-10), Self-Awareness (1-10). For each score, give a one-sentence justification.
Discuss with an AI. Question your scores.
Come back when you have your BEST evaluation.
What This Teaches You
You learn that arguing a position you disagree with is the highest test of ethical reasoning. If you can build the best case for the other side, you understand the dilemma deeply enough to hold any position responsibly. AI helps you prepare, but the live delivery without AI tests whether you truly internalized the perspective.