The Devil's Advocate

The Devil's Advocate refers to a person who takes a position they may not genuinely agree with, often to stimulate discussion, test the strength of arguments, and uncover weaknesses in a proposal. This practice is commonly used in decision-making processes to ensure all perspectives are considered and to challenge the status quo. By presenting opposing viewpoints, the Devil's Advocate helps groups think critically and avoid groupthink, ultimately leading to more thorough and robust conclusions. The term originated from the Catholic Church, where an official was appointed to argue against the canonization of a saint.