Rapoport’s Rules

Dennett's presentation of a charitable criticism sequence associated with Anatol Rapoport: accurately restate the position, identify agreement and learning, then explain disagreement.

Rapoport's rules, as presented by Dennett, organize criticism around an accurate account of the other position, genuine agreement, learning, and then disagreement. The sequence can expose a misunderstanding before it becomes an argument and focus criticism on the actual point of difference.

Accuracy is more important than ceremonial praise. There may be little agreement or nothing new learned, and those facts need not be concealed. The other person can correct the summary without holding an unlimited veto over criticism. Use the approach where a substantive exchange is possible, with a shorter form when the setting or stakes require it.

When to use it

When preparing a substantive critique or participating in a discussion where clarification could improve the exchange.

How it can help

Can reveal misunderstanding and focus criticism on the actual claim or tradeoff.