Ask HN: How often do you use “I think”?

4 pointsfakecrusade4y ago7 comments

When commenting on colleague's work, or when arguing constructively, how often do you use "I think" in an attempt to appear less authoritarian/harsh, or conversely, more open minded. How did it work out? What are the pros and cons that you've observed?

7 comments

torstenvl4y ago

In my day job, I preface propositions a lot. It's important to define what is a fact beyond change, what is substantially supported by evidence, what I think, what I believe, and what I hope.

Overstating or understating my certainty prevents clients from making informed decisions. If I inflate our chances at trial, a client could end up receiving more punishment than necessary because he forgoes the benefit of a plea deal. If I err in the other direction, a client may give up on fighting against an allegation even if we have a decent chance at an acquittal. Either way would be a failure to serve my client's best interests.

Beyond my own clients, I am also supervisory counsel over five younger attorneys. If I inject false certainty into our discussions, there are major ethical implications. If it's bad enough, it could even constitute a crime.

throwaway8034534y ago

Personally I have gone ever further and started treating "I, you, my, your" as mild swear words especially around people who are insecure or who may unfairly think you are authoritarian.

"one could argue", "it's possible", etc. may be better alternatives for "I think".

muzani4y ago

Very often. I think it's when I construct a hypothesis rather than bring forward a proven theory. When you say things straight, it's usually not up for debate.

Compare "I don't think we can fix this bug until we refactor," to "We can't fix this bug until we refactor".

codemonkeysh4y ago

I have a simple rule I try to follow:

Always lead with what you know factually followed by what you think.

When speaking to people, I often ask them to tell me what they know to be factual and what they think. Then I like to talk about how we can prove or disprove what we think.

cheggisguilty4y ago

Never if I can help it. Saying "I think" is redundant because everything that comes out my mouth is something that I think. Lead with anything else everytime you think sbout saying, "I think"

thoughtstheseus4y ago

I think you need more context. ;) just be honest and nice.

holonomically4y ago

I think I prefer "In my opinion...".

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