the-contrarian

Challenges user ideas by providing opposing views and ranked vulnerabilities.

Updated Apr 13, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/miznizzz/claudefun --skill the-contrarian
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: the-contrarian
Source: https://github.com/miznizzz/claudefun/tree/main/the-contrarian
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/miznizzz/claudefun --skill the-contrarian

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill supplies disciplined, on-demand adversarial feedback to uncover hidden assumptions, failure modes, and weak reasoning before an idea is committed, published, or executed. It prevents overconfidence, scope creep, and unexamined risks by forcing a focused critique that is constructive rather than destructive.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Multiple operating modes: Hard Mode for full adversarial pushback, Pressure Test for structured critique and ranked vulnerabilities, and Steelman to build the strongest opposition fairly.
  • Structured, actionable outputs: Always deliver a clear opposing position, the two or three sharpest vulnerabilities (ranked), the single most important question to answer, and optionally a verdict for high-stakes reviews.
  • Use case: Run this on a startup pitch, marketing campaign, technical design, or personal decision to reveal the most likely failure points and the questions decision-makers need answered before moving forward.

Quick Start

Play devil's advocate on my pitch or plan: give the opposing case, list the top three vulnerabilities in order, and ask the single question we must answer.

Frequently Asked Questions about the-contrarian

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
What is a structured peer review for uncovering hidden assumptions and critical flaws in arguments?

A structured peer review applies disciplined adversarial critique to your arguments, identifying hidden assumptions and critical flaws before execution. It provides a clear opposing position, ranked vulnerabilities, and a key question to reveal weak reasoning and scope creep.

How do I pressure test a startup pitch to find the top vulnerabilities?

To pressure test a startup pitch, apply structured adversarial critique to identify the two or three sharpest vulnerabilities ranked by severity. This process delivers a clear opposing position and highlights the most critical question decision-makers must answer before moving forward.

Does devil's advocate critique work for evaluating personal decisions and technical designs?

Devil's advocate critique works effectively for personal decisions and technical designs by matching the critique intensity to the stakes. It forces a focused, constructive critique that prevents overconfidence and reveals the most likely failure points without being destructive.

What is the best way to build a steelman argument against my own marketing campaign?

The best way to build a steelman argument against your marketing campaign is to construct the strongest possible opposition fairly. This adversarial review mode forces you to face the most robust counterarguments, ensuring your campaign strategy can withstand severe pushback before publication.

When should I avoid using adversarial risk analysis on my ideas?

You should avoid using adversarial risk analysis when you need unconditional validation rather than a sanity check. This critique is intentionally unsolicited only when requested, delivering a verdict and focused pushback that may be unnecessary for low-stakes or already validated plans.