Contrariots thrive on opposition, but they know outright arguments can turn people off. Enter their favorite tool: just asking questions.
It’s the perfect way to challenge ideas without committing to a position—or accountability. Here’s the ultimate guide to wielding this technique with contrariot finesse:
1. Frame the Question as Innocent Curiosity
Start with a phrase like “I’m just curious…” or “I’m trying to understand…” This disarms your audience and makes you appear open-minded, even if you’re gearing up to plant a seed of doubt.
• Example: “I’m just curious—why don’t we ever see stars in the moon landing photos?”
2. Avoid Stating Facts (or Citing Sources)
Contrariots don’t need evidence; the goal is to raise doubt. Frame your question to make it seem like the burden of proof lies on everyone else.
• Example: “If the Earth is round, why don’t we feel it spinning?”
3. Use Hypotheticals to Shift the Burden
Pose “what if” scenarios to steer the conversation into your wheelhouse. You’re not making claims—you’re just exploring possibilities.
• Example: “What if the government staged the moon landing to win the Space Race? Doesn’t that seem plausible?”
4. Leverage Confusion Over Specifics
Focus on tiny details that are hard to explain offhand, forcing others to stumble or Google answers. This keeps you in control of the conversation.
• Example: “How did the lunar module take off from the moon without leaving a blast crater?”
5. Never Commit to a Conclusion
The beauty of just asking questions is that you can keep the conversation going indefinitely. If someone counters you, simply shrug and say, “I’m just exploring ideas.”
• Example: “I’m not saying the vaccine is harmful, but why don’t we know what’s in it?”
6. Appear Open to All Sides
Finish with a noncommittal statement to maintain plausible deniability.
• Example: “I’m not saying it’s true—I just think it’s worth asking about.”
By mastering the art of just asking questions, a contrariot can challenge widely accepted ideas while staying comfortably out of the line of fire. After all, they’re not making accusations—they’re just “seeking the truth.”
Contrariot.com 