Prompt to act as a Socratic tutor and question my assumptions

[WillFaber]

I've been using AI in a way that actually feels... intellectual?? Like not just "write my paper" but "debate me like I'm Plato and you're Socrates but make it fun." I'm writing a paper on ethical dilemmas in documentary filmmaking (like, is it exploitative to film tragedy?? that whole vibe). And I kept getting stuck because my own arguments felt... circular. Like I was just agreeing with myself.

So I made this prompt. Sharing because it's actually kinda fire:

Prompt:

"Act as a Socratic tutor who specializes in [film ethics]. I'm a film student writing a paper arguing that [documentaries about tragedy exploit their subjects]. Do NOT agree with me. Question every assumption I make. Ask me 'why' until I can't answer anymore. Point out logical flaws. Play devil's advocate. Be annoying but in a smart way. Start by asking me one question about my thesis."

What happened next:

AI hit me with: "What defines 'exploitation' in this context? If a subject consents fully, is it still exploitation?"

Me: "Well, consent is complicated because..."

AI: "Why is it complicated?"

Me: "Because power dynamics—"

AI: "What power dynamics specifically? Give an example."

Me: ...

It went on for like 20 exchanges. By the end, I had completely重构 my argument. I realized my thesis was too simple. Now I'm arguing that consent in documentary is performative which is WAY more interesting.

Why this works:

• It forces you to defend your ideas
• It finds gaps you didn't see
• It gives you counter-arguments to address in your paper
• It's low-key fun?? Like intellectual sparring

Has anyone else used AI for this kinda thing?? Not for answers but for questioning?? Drop your prompts below if you have good ones. I'm collecting them like Pokémon.

Also side note: Socrates would've loved ChatGPT. Change my mind.