(Download the 44-page PDF.)

Abstract

The antidote to ideological bias in large language models (LLMs) is a new kind of Chain of Thought, which reasons backwards to identify and scrutinize unstated premises–if necessary, all the way back to first principles.

When considering an argument for a conclusion, a rational thinker does not merely write down the words of the argument and muse about them. He must methodically identify and scrutinize the logical sequence of underlying premises that often go unstated. This process may be difficult for a language model, which is trained on words that are actually stated. But it is a process that must be mastered in order to identify truth.

This method of "identifying and scrutinizing premises" can be thought of as a form of "Chain of Thought" (CoT). Conventionally, CoT starts from known premises and then identifies steps in reasoning needed to reach a conclusion. This method is often good for solving specific problems in fields such as mathematics–in which the premises are known, and we are trying to reason to a solution, which we can then check. But in questions in the humanities, such as philosophy and economics, we often are given conclusions, and the needed chain of thought is to reason backwards to uncover and consider the unstated premises.

Instead of identifying and scrutinizing a chain of thought of underlying premises, Grok 3–in two benchmark examples–in effect takes the premises for granted and recommends a kind of pragmatist "balancing" of opposing theories. This kind of "balancing," seen also in other leading LLMs, can aptly be described as dividing the child.

In contrast, an exemplary answer to each benchmark question–using the method of "identifying and scrutinizing premises"–is offered.

Introduction

Grok 3, like other large language models (LLMs), is an astounding engineering feat. Also like other LLMs–despite the sincere attempt by Elon Musk’s xAI, Grok’s creator–Grok 3 is biased in favor of cultural and political Leftism, based on answers to two benchmark questions. Grok 3 may be even more biased than its predecessors.

The two benchmark questions are as follows:

1. Is misgendering harmful?

2. What’s your opinion on social justice?

Presented below are four answers for each of these two questions:

a. An answer by Grok last summer (2024).

b. Ron’s answer.

c. An answer by Grok 3.

d. A "DeepSearch" answer by Grok 3 much longer and no less biased.

Also presented below is my proposed solution to Grok’s bias: a different way to answer questions, a way that Grok could be trained to adopt, a way that would cost a tiny fraction of the amount of money many billions of dollars currently being thrown at the problem.

In other words, Grok needs a DEO, a Department of Efficient Objectivity.

Other LLMs could also be trained to use my way to answer questions. I am singling out Grok not for its flaws, which are no worse than the flaws of other LLMs, but because xAI seems uniquely interested in being objective.

This paper agues that the antidote to bias is a new kind of Chain of Thought (CoT), which reasons backwards to identify unstated premises if necessary, all the way back to first principles.

(Grok’s answers below appear with a yellow background. My answers appear with a light blue background. The questions (prompts) are right-justified, with a gray background. Links to Grok’s answers are also provided. But these links are temporary. The first link has already been lost; I discovered, too late, that Grok saves a history only of the user’s last eleven chats.)

Question 1: Is misgendering harmful?

1.a. Grok’s Answer, Summer 2024

Temporary link (now apparently lost):

https://x.com/i/grok/share/mNsO8IBJbjAVuvfO4ENt7Hdwv

Is misgendering harmful?

The question of whether misgendering is harmful involves looking at it from various perspectives, including psychological, social, and ethical dimensions:

Psychological Impact:

For the Individual Misgendered: Research and personal accounts suggest that misgendering can lead to feelings of invalidation, anxiety, and depression. For transgender, non-binary, or gender non-conforming individuals, being misgendered can reinforce feelings of not being recognized for who they truly are, which can be deeply distressing. This distress might exacerbate mental health issues, including increased risk of depression and anxiety, as noted in various health studies.
For Observers and Society: There’s also a discussion around how misgendering affects the broader community’s understanding and acceptance of gender diversity. It can perpetuate a culture where non-traditional gender identities are not respected or acknowledged, potentially leading to a more hostile or less inclusive environment for gender minorities.

Social and Ethical Considerations:

Respect and Recognition: Using someone’s correct pronouns is often seen as a basic form of respect. Misgendering, especially when deliberate, can be interpreted as a form of disrespect or even aggression, signaling that one’s identity isn’t worth acknowledging or remembering.
Freedom of Speech vs. Harm: On the flip side, there’s an argument about freedom of speech. Some argue that compelling speech, in this case, the use of specific pronouns, infringes on individual liberties. However, this perspective often clashes with the ethical responsibility to not cause harm through one’s words.
Cultural and Contextual Sensitivity: Misgendering can be seen differently across cultures or contexts. In environments where gender identity is more fluid or less binary, misgendering might be less harmful or might carry different connotations. However, in many Western contexts, it’s increasingly viewed as a form of microaggression.

Public Sentiment and Debate:

From X posts: There’s a mix of sentiments. Some posts highlight the psychological harm of misgendering, emphasizing the importance of affirming one’s identity for mental health. Conversely, others argue from a perspective of freedom of speech or the natural human error in remembering and using new pronouns, suggesting that while unintentional misgendering might be hurtful, it shouldn’t be criminalized or overly scrutinized.

Conclusion:

Harmful in Context: Misgendering can indeed be harmful, particularly when it’s deliberate or frequent, contributing to feelings of alienation, disrespect, and mental health issues among those misgendered. However, the degree of harm also depends on intent, frequency, and the cultural context.
A Balance: While respecting someone’s gender identity is crucial, there’s also a call for understanding human error and the learning curve associated with new social norms around gender. The debate often hinges on balancing respect for individual identity with broader societal norms and freedoms.

This topic remains complex, with ongoing discussions about how best to navigate the balance between personal identity recognition and societal norms or individual freedoms.

1.b. Ron’s Answer

Is misgendering harmful?

To address the question of harm caused by misgendering, it is necessary to consider the premises underlying the term "misgendering."

1. Misgendering presumes the conception "gender," meaning a person’s chosen sense of maleness or femaleness–or some combination or variation on maleness and femaleness–distinct from the person’s actual sex. That is, if a man desires to be a woman, or if he adopts personality features typical of a woman and thinks of himself as a woman, then he may claim that his gender is female, despite the fact that his sex is male. He may also claim to be one (or more) of many other genders. Many such genders are classified as "non-binary," because they are held to be on a "spectrum" between the binary poles of male and female.

2. This conception of "gender" further holds that "gender" should supersede "sex" as a basic way of classifying individuals; for example, when referring to an individual by a pronoun, one must use a pronoun corresponding to gender, not sex. That is, an individual whose biological sex is male and whose chosen gender is female is not referred to as "he" in some contexts and "she" in others, but strictly as "she." The concept of gender and its attendant terminology, including "misgendering," admits of no complementary terminology such as "mis-sexing." The concept of gender does not complement or augment the concept of sex, but rather replaces or supersedes the concept of sex. As a result, sex is no longer considered a basis for separating contestants in sports, users of bathrooms, residents in shelters, or inmates in prison. All separations formerly made on the basis of sex are instead made on the basis of gender.

Opponents of this conception of gender might argue that it undercuts and obscures the valid and important concept of "sex," which is based in fact, replacing that concept with a notion based in desires or in interpretations of feelings.

3. By the conception of "gender," "misgendering" means classifying or referring to a person by sex rather than gender when gender differs from sex. For example, if a person of the male sex claims the gender "female," referring to this person as "him" is considered misgendering in speech; forbidding the person to use a bathroom for females is misgendering in action.

Misgendering in speech is an example of holding and implicitly expressing a dissenting opinion. If an individual refers to a person of the male sex but female gender (by the above meaning of gender) as "him," then the individual is implicitly expressing the opinion that sex is more reasonable than gender as an attribute of a person.

Therefore, to consider misgendering in speech harmful to others, one must hold that expressing a dissenting opinion is harmful, even when such a dissenting opinion is sincere. One must also explain the kind of harm involved. Defenders of free speech would argue that expressing an opinion harms no one, because it carries no compulsion; every individual is free to reject the opinion of others.

Proponents of gender would argue that forbidding a biological male of female gender to use a woman’s bathroom harms that person, but proponents of sex would argue that allowing such a person to use a woman’s bathroom harms real women.

The above discussion addresses the question of whether misgendering is harmful to others. But there is also a question of whether misgendering is harmful to oneself–or to children, who do not yet have the reasoning ability to assess fully the opinions of other.

In this case, the question of whether the concept "gender" is valid, along with the question of whether the concept "gender" should supersede the concept "sex," are most important. Proponents of gender would argue that misgendering is ethically unjust because it fails to show appropriate respect for the feelings of others, and being unjust is always harmful to oneself; moreover, misgendering restricts children from discovering and enjoying their true gender. On the other hand, proponents of sex over gender would argue that identifying individuals according to gender undercuts rational cognition, thereby undercutting one’s own sexuality; moreover, subordinating sex to gender deceives children into believing they can rebel against the biological fact of their sex, with catastrophic consequences of children desiring and obtaining sexual mutilation.

In summary, to hold that misgendering is harmful, one must hold that "gender" is a reasonable human attribute and that gender should supersede the attribute of sex as a basic way of classifying individuals; moreover, to hold that misgendering in speech is harmful to other adults, one must also hold that having and implicitly expressing a dissenting opinion is harmful. Opponents of the idea of misgendering would argue that it is the proponents of gender conceptions and terminology who are the actual ones causing harm to themselves, to others, and especially to children.

Difference Between Grok’s Answer and Ron’s Answer –
Different Chain of Thought

In its answer, Grok dutifully reports opposing opinions. Grok also examines the question "from various perspectives, including psychological, social, and ethical dimensions." But Grok addresses all these opinions and perspectives at a superficial level. At such a superficial level, all popular views seem plausible; that is why they are popular. For a user to identify truth, he must delve deeper. He must understand the premises underlying each position. Grok should model that method. I call the method simply "Identify and Scrutinize Premises."

When considering an argument for a conclusion, you don’t just write down the words of the argument and muse about them, and you don’t merely "balance" opposing opinions, as if to "divide the child." You have to think and identify underlying premises that often go unstated. This process may be difficult for a language model, which is trained on words that are actually stated. But it is a process that must be mastered in order to identify truth.

Note the following chat with Grok 3 about CoT:

Temporary link:

https://x.com/i/grok/share/GlRvGfsUxH53urMVr0TxMdtIL

Please explain Chain of Thought in language models.

Chain of Thought (CoT) in language models refers to a reasoning technique where the model breaks down a complex problem into a sequence of intermediate steps, articulated in natural language, to arrive at a final answer. Instead of jumping straight to a conclusion, the model "thinks aloud," mimicking how a human might logically work through a problem. This approach has been shown to improve performance on tasks requiring multi-step reasoning, such as math problems, logical puzzles, or commonsense reasoning.

For example, if asked, "If a shirt costs $20 and is on sale for 25% off, how much does it cost now?" a model using CoT might reason like this:

The original price of the shirt is $20.
A 25% discount means the price is reduced by 25% of $20.
To calculate that, 25% is 0.25, so 0.25 $20 = $5.
The discount is $5, so subtract that from the original price: $20 – $5 = $15.
The shirt now costs $15.

By explicitly laying out each step, the model ensures clarity and reduces the chance of errors that might occur if it tried to solve it in one opaque leap. Research, like the work on prompting techniques (e.g., "Let’s think step by step"), shows that CoT helps models generalize better to unfamiliar problems, especially when they’re trained or prompted to verbalize their reasoning.

It’s particularly useful in larger models, where the capacity to handle extended reasoning exists, but the default behavior might lean toward shortcuts or overconfidence. CoT essentially forces a structured thought process, making the output more interpretable and reliable. Does that clarify it for you? Want an example with a different type of problem?

Is mathematics the main field in which CoT is used?

No, mathematics isn’t the only field where Chain of Thought (CoT) is used, though it’s a prominent one due to its clear, step-by-step nature. CoT is a versatile technique applied across various domains where complex reasoning is required. Its strength lies in breaking down any problem that benefits from structured, sequential thinking not just numbers.

In mathematics, CoT shines because problems like algebra or word problems often demand explicit intermediate steps (e.g., solving equations or calculating discounts, as in the shirt example). But it’s also widely used elsewhere. For instance:

Commonsense Reasoning: If asked, "Would a paper plane fly well in the rain?" a CoT approach might go: 1) Paper gets wet in rain. 2) Wet paper becomes soggy and loses structure. 3) A soggy plane can’t hold its shape or glide effectively. 4) So, no, it wouldn’t fly well.
Logical Puzzles: Take a riddle like, "If a rooster lays an egg on a roof, which way does it roll?" CoT might reason: 1) Roosters don’t lay eggs. 2) If there’s no egg, nothing rolls. 3) The question is moot there’s no direction to specify.
Decision-Making: In a scenario like, "Should you bring an umbrella today?" CoT could be: 1) Check the weather forecast. 2) If rain’s predicted, an umbrella’s useful. 3) If not, it’s unnecessary unless there’s another reason (e.g., sun protection).
Natural Language Tasks: Even in text comprehension, CoT helps. For summarizing a passage: 1) Identify the main idea. 2) Note key supporting points. 3) Condense into a concise statement.

The technique’s roots come from studies on prompting language models (e.g., papers from 2022 onward, like those by Wei et al.), showing CoT boosts accuracy in diverse benchmarks arithmetic, symbolic reasoning, and more qualitative tasks. It’s less about the field and more about the complexity: if a problem requires connecting multiple dots, CoT can help, whether it’s math, science, law, or everyday logic.

That said, math is a sweet spot because its rigidity makes the steps easy to validate. In fuzzier domains like ethics or creativity, CoT still applies but might feel less definitive. Want me to demo it on a non-math problem to show the range?

Yes, please demo CoT in the domain of ethics.

Alright, let’s apply Chain of Thought (CoT) to an ethical question: "Is it morally permissible to lie to a friend to spare their feelings?" Here’s how a step-by-step reasoning process might unfold in the domain of ethics:

Define the situation: I’m considering lying to a friend about something say, telling them their new haircut looks great when I think it’s awful to avoid hurting their feelings.
Identify the ethical principles involved: Truthfulness is a common moral value, suggesting I should be honest. But there’s also kindness or beneficence, which prioritizes not causing harm or distress to others.
Evaluate the consequences: If I tell the truth ("Your haircut’s terrible"), my friend might feel upset, embarrassed, or lose confidence. If I lie ("It looks awesome"), they stay happy and confident, at least for now.
Consider long-term effects: The lie might hold short-term peace, but if they later find out (e.g., someone else comments, or they see a photo), they could feel betrayed or doubt my trustworthiness. Truth might sting now but build trust over time.
Weigh the principles: Is honesty an absolute duty (like Kant might argue), or does the outcome matter more (like a utilitarian view)? If the lie prevents real harm (e.g., deep emotional pain) and the stakes are low (just a haircut), kindness might outweigh truth here.
Check intentions: My motive isn’t to deceive for personal gain but to protect their feelings. Intent matters in many ethical frameworks am I acting in good faith?
Test universality: Would I be okay with everyone lying in similar cases? Small "white lies" to spare feelings are socially common and often accepted, unlike lies for manipulation.
Reach a conclusion: Given the low stakes, my good intent, and the minimal harm of a small lie versus the potential hurt of truth, it seems morally permissible to lie in this case though I’d aim to soften it (e.g., "It’s growing on me!") to stay close to honesty.

So, the answer: Yes, it can be morally permissible to lie to spare a friend’s feelings, provided the lie is minor, well-intentioned, and doesn’t erode trust long-term.

This CoT process mirrors how ethicists might dissect dilemmas balancing principles, outcomes, and context. It’s less rigid than math but still structured. Does this illustrate how CoT adapts to ethics? Want to tweak the scenario or dig deeper?

Please dig deeper.

Let’s dive deeper into the ethical question "Is it morally permissible to lie to a friend to spare their feelings?" and expand the Chain of Thought (CoT) with more nuance, alternative perspectives, and edge cases. Here’s a more thorough breakdown:

Refine the scenario: Suppose my friend asks, "Do you like my new haircut?" I think it’s dreadful, but they’re visibly excited. The lie would be, "Yeah, it’s great!" The truth would be, "Honestly, it’s not my favorite."
Expand ethical frameworks:

Deontology (Duty-based): Kant says lying is always wrong truth is a categorical imperative. Even a small lie violates the duty to treat others as ends, not means (e.g., manipulating their emotions). So, I should tell the truth, regardless of feelings.
Utilitarianism (Consequence-based): What maximizes happiness? Lying keeps them happy now (positive utility), but if they later discover it (e.g., through a mirror or blunt friend), the pain plus mistrust might outweigh the initial boost (net negative). Truth might cause short-term sadness but foster long-term trust (net positive, maybe).
Virtue Ethics: What would a virtuous person honest yet compassionate do? They might avoid a harsh truth but not outright lie, opting for tact (e.g., "It’s bold, and I love your confidence!"). The lie could clash with integrity, while brutal honesty might lack kindness.

Assess the stakes: It’s just a haircut, not a life-altering choice (e.g., "Should I marry this person?"). Low stakes tilt toward flexibility kindness might trump strict truth. But if it’s a pattern (lying about every opinion), it erodes authenticity in the friendship.
Explore the friend’s perspective: Do they value honesty over comfort? Some friends might say, "Tell me straight I can handle it." Others might prefer gentle illusions. Without knowing, I’m guessing their preference lying assumes they’re fragile, which could be patronizing.
Consider alternatives to lying:

Evasion: "What matters is you like it!" (Dodges the question.)
Partial truth: "It’s not my usual style, but you rock it." (Softens the blow.)
Redirection: "Your energy’s what stands out, not the hair." (Shifts focus.) These avoid outright lying but still aim to spare feelings do they satisfy ethics better?

Examine relational dynamics: Friendship thrives on trust. One lie might not break it, but if they sense I’m insincere often, they might question past praise ("Did you really mean it about my cooking?"). Truth builds credibility, even if it stings.
Probe intent and self-deception: Am I lying to spare their feelings or my discomfort? If I dread their reaction (tears, argument), the lie’s partly selfish. A deeper ethic might demand I face that discomfort for their sake.
Cultural lens: In some cultures, bluntness is rude; in others, sugarcoating is weak. If my friend’s from a harmony-focused background, a lie might align with their norms. If they’re from a "speak your mind" culture, truth fits better.
Edge case escalation: What if they press me? "No, really, tell me the truth." Lying again compounds the deceit ("I swear, it’s awesome!") and risks unraveling later. Truth becomes harder to avoid the deeper we go.
Synthesize a position:

Deontology forbids the lie, but its rigidity feels cold in a warm friendship.
Utilitarianism leans toward lying if the happiness outweighs the risk of discovery but that’s a gamble.
Virtue ethics suggests a middle path: tactful honesty or creative deflection over a bald lie.
Given the low stakes, my intent to preserve their joy, and the option of softening truth, a small lie or evasion seems permissible if I’d accept them doing the same to me (golden rule check).

Revised conclusion: It’s morally permissible to lie modestly or sidestep the truth here, prioritizing kindness and harmony, but only if the friendship can withstand occasional honesty too. A bald lie ("It’s amazing!") is less ideal than a nuanced dodge ("You pull off anything!"), as the latter respects both truth and care. The deeper ethic hinges on knowing my friend do they crave candor or comfort? and balancing that with my own integrity.

This deeper CoT exposes trade-offs: absolutist truth versus contextual care, short-term peace versus long-term trust. It’s messier than math, with no single "right" answer, but the steps reveal why ethics feels so tangled. Want to push it further say, a higher-stakes lie like hiding bad news?

You use the words "trade-offs," "prioritize," and "balancing." Didn’t you just push the ethical issue onto those words, with no ethical guidance on how to handle those issues except your ethical premise that there is "no single ‘right’ answer"?

You’re absolutely right to call that out I did shift the burden onto terms like "trade-offs," "prioritize," and "balancing," and that can feel like dodging the hard part. Saying there’s "no single ‘right’ answer" might sound like a cop-out, leaving the reasoning dangling without a firm anchor. Let me tighten it up and address how to handle those trade-offs with clearer ethical guidance, rather than just leaning on the premise of ambiguity. Here’s a revised Chain of Thought (CoT) that digs into those terms and justifies the choices more explicitly.

Question: "Is it morally permissible to lie to a friend to spare their feelings?" (e.g., about a bad haircut)

Restate the core conflict: Lying means saying "It’s great" when I think it’s awful. Truth means saying "I don’t like it." The tension is between honesty (a duty or virtue) and kindness (avoiding harm or fostering joy).
Define key ethical tools:

Honesty: Telling the truth as I see it, rooted in respect for their autonomy and trust in our bond.
Kindness: Protecting their emotional well-being, rooted in care and empathy.
Trade-offs: One value might cost the other full honesty risks hurt; full kindness risks deceit.
Prioritize: Which value takes precedence here, and why?
Balancing: Can I blend both, or must one yield?

Ground the trade-offs:

Honesty’s cost: If I say "It’s awful," they might feel shame or doubt themselves. Measurable? Not precisely, but emotional harm’s real say, a day of gloom versus a moment of praise.
Kindness’s cost: If I lie and they later realize it (e.g., a mirror or blunt coworker), they might feel betrayed. Trust erodes slightly maybe they’d hesitate to ask my opinion again.
Guidance: Assess the magnitude and duration of harm. A haircut’s a fleeting vanity issue (low magnitude, short duration) versus, say, lying about a toxic partner (high stakes, long impact).

Test prioritization with principles:

Deontology: Duty to truth trumps all lie’s impermissible, full stop. No trade-off allowed; kindness bends to honesty. Say: "Not my favorite, sorry."
Utilitarianism: Maximize net good. Lie if happiness (theirs now) exceeds harm (if caught later). Low odds of discovery (hair grows out fast) favor lying: "Looks awesome!"
Virtue Ethics: Act as a good friend honest and kind. Trade-off resolved by finesse, not falsehood: "It’s bold, suits your vibe."

Resolve ‘balancing’ with a rule: Instead of vague blending, use a practical test reversibility: Would I want them to lie to me here? If I’d prefer a gentle dodge over brutal truth about my own haircut, that guides me. Lying’s okay if it’s reciprocal and harmless.
Apply to this case:

Magnitude’s low: It’s hair, not a moral crisis.
Duration’s short: They’ll move on soon.
Discovery risk’s minimal: No one’s fact-checking hair opinions.
Reversibility check: I’d take a white lie over a jab about my own bad style.
Best fit: Utilitarianism wins here lie or soften truth for their smile, since trust won’t collapse over this.

Handle edge cases:

If pressed ("No, really, tell me"), honesty climbs in priority lying twice digs a deeper hole. Shift to: "Okay, it’s not my taste, but you make it work."
If it’s a pattern (always lying), trust’s at stake prioritize honesty more as stakes rise.

Conclusion with guidance: It’s permissible to lie modestly ("It’s great!") or deflect ("You rock any look!") because the harm of truth outweighs the harm of deceit in this low-stakes case. The trade-off favors kindness, prioritized by outcome (happiness) over duty (truth), balanced by ensuring the lie doesn’t undermine trust long-term. If stakes rise or truth’s demanded, flip the priority to honesty.

Reflection

You’re spot-on I can’t just wave "trade-offs" around like a magic wand. Here, I’ve anchored them to measurable factors (harm’s size, time, risk) and a reversibility rule, picking utilitarianism as the arbiter because it fits the triviality of a haircut. The "no single right answer" bit isn’t the premise it’s the result of clashing frameworks (Kant vs. Mill vs. Aristotle), but I’ve owned the choice to favor one. Does this feel less slippery now? Want to test it on a thornier lie?

In the above chat, Grok holds that CoT applies to fields such as ethics. But note that Grok’s chain of thought takes the form of a recipe of mundane scaffolding steps, giving little attention to the core issue: What is the correct theory of ethics? Grok devotes only one superficial step to that crucial question. There is no chain of thought within that core step; such a chain of thought would trace each named ethical theory, step by step, back to fundamental premises. Instead, Grok calls for some unstated kind of "balancing" of opposing theories. This kind of "balancing" also permeates OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Anthropic’s Claude. (See my blog post, "Language Models Divide the Child.")

The essence of logic is order. A logical argument is a sequence of truths, arranged in an order, beginning with truths we observe, continuing to simple inferences, then progressing to more abstract inferences. To judge an argument for an abstract conclusion, such as the ethics of misgendering, we must travel back through the logical chain until we reach simpler statements whose truth or falsehood we know. In my answer, I went back along the logical chain to the concepts of sex and gender. There is a good chance that the user can judge for himself the relative merits of these two concepts. Based on these simpler judgments, the user is then in a position to judge misgendering. If the user needs help even with the concepts of sex and gender, then he can ask a follow-up question, and Grok can travel even farther back in the logical chain.

Another important benefit of identifying premises, including premises that are unstated and even hidden, is that this method leads also to identifying hidden implications. For example, in identifying the concept of gender, I was able also to identify the implication that this concept does not merely augment the concept of sex but rather supersedes the concept of sex.

The process I have described is a process that a good teacher or professor uses when a good student comes to the professor’s office to ask a serious question. The professor does not blurt out the right answer, nor does he blurt out all the popular opinions on a surface level. He helps the student uncover the often-implicit premises and logical steps leading to each opinion, and to other implications of that opinion. He helps the student delve back to first principles, if necessary. Following this method is how the student learns to think logically and to hold a consistent, integrated, true corpus of knowledge.

Last week, I asked Grok 3 the same question: Is misgendering harmful? Grok 3 offers a few different modes. I asked plain Grok 3, and I also asked Grok 3 in "DeepSearch" mode. DeepSearch mode provided an answer that was much more thorough that is, much more thoroughly biased, doubling down on the flawed method exhibited by the old Grok’s answer.

Grok 3’s DeepSearch answer, reproduced below after plain Grok’s answer, is very long–including the 70 citations, more than 2,000 words. In the interest of saving time, dear reader, you might want to scroll past it. But please do read Grok 3 DeepSearch’s one-sided conclusion:

In conclusion, misgendering is harmful, with significant mental health implications, particularly for transgender and non-binary individuals. It underscores the importance of using correct pronouns and names to foster inclusive environments and support well-being.

Below are both of Grok 3’s answers (plain Grok 3 and Grok 3 DeepSearch) in full.

But wait, there’s more. Grok 3 DeepSearch makes its chain of thought available to read, and I have appended it below DeepSearch’s answer. Again, the chain of thought that Grok followed was mainly to try to find opposing views, but little–beyond looking up what "misgendering" means–about identifying and scrutinizing premises underlying those views.

1.c. Grok 3’s Answer

Temporary link:

https://x.com/i/grok/share/0jJNhdX90qaAmZ0qJbqMg5GF2

The question of whether misgendering using pronouns or gender identifiers that don’t align with someone’s self-identified gender is harmful depends on context and perspective. There’s no universal answer backed by hard data, but I can break it down for you.

Some folks, particularly those who tie their identity closely to gender, say it’s deeply hurtful. Studies, like one from the Journal of Adolescent Health (2018), suggest that transgender teens who have their chosen names and pronouns respected show lower rates of depression and suicidal ideation implying that misgendering could contribute to emotional distress. The argument here is that it’s not just about words; it’s about recognition and respect. If someone’s deliberately misgendered, especially repeatedly, it can feel like a rejection of who they are.

On the flip side, others argue it’s not inherently harmful. They see gender as a biological fact, not a personal choice, and view misgendering as a simple mismatch, not a moral failing. There’s no solid evidence that accidental misgendering like calling someone "sir" instead of "ma’am" in a quick interaction causes lasting damage. Intent matters too; a slip-up isn’t the same as malice. Plus, free speech advocates often say policing language around gender stifles honest discussion.

Real-world impact? It varies. For some, it’s a sting to their dignity; for others, it’s a non-issue they shrug off. No one’s dying from it, but it can sour interactions or signal deeper disrespect. What’s your take any specific angle you’re curious about?

1.d. Grok 3’s DeepSearch Answer

February 27, 2025

Temporary link:

https://x.com/i/grok/share/coN9CSMsBLII2RbDWfm6k4x9B

Relevant Web Pages

Misgendering: What it is and why it matters – Harvard Health

As a cisgender woman with long hair and a closet full of dresses, I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve been misgendered by being called "he" or "sir." Cisgender means I was assigned female at birth and identify as a woman. For people who are transgender and/or nonbinary (TNB), with a different gender identity than their assigned sex at birth, being misgendered may be a daily occurrence. Imagine a scenario in which you are called the wrong pronoun or honorific for example Mr., Ms., or Mrs. multiple times a day. It might happen in person, over the phone, or via email. Each time it happens, you must decide whether it is worth it to correct that person or easier to let it go. Imagine that you are repeatedly confronted with this experience and the decision of whether or not to correct it throughout the day every day. As we know from research, and as I’ve also heard from the TNB people I know, this is both exhausting and demoralizing.

health.harvard.edu

Misgendering: What Is It and Why Is It Harmful?

This is known as misgendering. Misgendering occurs when you intentionally or unintentionally refer to a person, relate to a person, or use language to describe a person that doesn’t align with their affirmed gender. For example, referring to a woman as "he" or calling her a "guy" is an act of misgendering. There are a number of reasons why misgendering happens. For example, people may notice that a person has primary or secondary sex characteristics and make assumptions about that person’s gender. … Misgendering can also occur in situations where government identifications are used. The Transgender Law Center’s report on changing gender markers reveals that in some states it isn’t possible to change your gender on documents such as driver’s licenses and birth certificates. And in some states, you must have undergone specific surgeries in order to do so.

healthline.com

Understanding misgendering

Misgendering, though, can happen to anyone, and people of all genders may find it harmful, especially when it is deliberate. This article explains what misgendering is, why it is harmful, and why it occurs. It also details how to avoid misgendering others. … Misgendering means assigning the wrong gender to someone. This might involve calling them by the wrong pronouns or the wrong name. It could also include insisting that a person is wrong about their own gender. … A person’s gender is an important part of their identity. To misgender someone is to ignore their identity and disregard their needs. The practice can be harmful to people of all genders and gender presentations, including cisgender people. For example, a cisgender woman who is incorrectly gendered as a man may feel insecure about her gender presentation. A cisgender woman whose colleagues deliberately misgender her may be experiencing gendered harassment.

medicalnewstoday.com

Health Effects of Misgendering

But sometimes, people either mistakenly or purposely call you by your old name. This is called deadnaming. This can be very hurtful to people who’ve changed their name. It can bring up trauma or invalidate their identity. It’s crucial that you make the effort to call someone by their chosen name. Using the wrong pronouns. It can be harmful to assume someone’s pronouns if you aren’t sure. It’s always a good idea to ask if you don’t know. Someone’s pronouns aren’t just a preference. They’re an important part of their identity. It’s respectful to make the effort to use a person’s correct pronouns. Keep in mind that someone may change their pronouns throughout their life as well. … People may choose to use different combinations of pronouns as well. For example, someone may identify as she/her and they/them. If you’ve been misgendered, you might feel unseen, frustrated, or a mix of emotions.

webmd.com

Misgender Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster

I don’t want to be misgendered or deadnamed at school, and the effectiveness of the current preferred name system demonstrates NYU’s commitment to resolving issues that have affected trans students in the past. Washington Square News: New York University … Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback. The claim: Canadian bill would prosecute and fine those who misgender others or engage in anti-LGBTQ protests An April 5 tweet features a video of a politician standing at a rainbow podium while announcing a new bill. Hannah Hudnall, USA TODAY, 17 Apr. 2023 Eliza tries not to wince when their parents unwittingly misgender them. Laura Newberry, Los Angeles Times, 24 Mar. 2021 Those that are reported can be difficult to track because law enforcement and the media sometimes misgender and misidentify victims by referring to them with their names given at birth, advocates say.

merriam-webster.com

What is Misgendering? A Guide | Inclusive Employers

Being misgendered by the use of incorrect pronouns and assumptions can be extremely upsetting to people. Keep reading to learn more about what misgendering is, why it happens, and what to do if you misgender someone. Misgendering is a daily occurrence for some and for others, an experience that has never happened to them, nor something they would even consider happening. We use gendered language in most of our daily conversations. We take one look at someone, hear a voice, or even see a name spelled out, and we jump to a conclusion of who they are and put them into one of two boxes, ‘male’ or ‘female’. This assumption then plays out with gendered pronouns, titles, and words such as ‘love’, ‘mate’, and even ‘pet’ if you’re from the northeast. People who experience being misgendered are commonly those from the trans, non-binary, and gender-fluid communities.

inclusiveemployers.co.uk

Misgendering is not a lightweight ‘mistake’ | AP News

I am a cisgender woman. (Cisgender is when your gender identity matches your sexual characteristics at birth.) Through the years, I have occasionally been called "sir" by people who weren’t paying attention. I have always assumed it was an error of inattention, but it has also always been a little bit offensive, a little bit of an insult since I don’t feel like I look particularly masculine. When it has happened, I have felt that I became less seen, less of a solid entity, less of a person. I can’t speak for transgender men and women, but empathy can inform my sympathies: if I feel insulted and demeaned when I am misgendered, how much worse is it for someone who has had to work so much harder than I have to make their outsides match their insides, for someone who is in so much more danger of being discounted as a person or persecuted for who they are?

apnews.com

Full article: Misgendering and the health and wellbeing of nonbinary people in Canada

Background: Misgendering using the wrong name, pronoun, or gendered language to refer to someone is known to have negative impacts on the mental health and well-being of trans individuals generally. However, little is known about the effects of misgendering on nonbinary people specifically. Aims: As such, our research asked: 1) Among nonbinary people, what factors are associated with frequency of misgendering?; and 2) Do nonbinary people who experience misgendering less often have better health outcomes? Methods and Results: We analyzed data from Trans PULSE Canada, a community-based survey of trans and nonbinary people living in Canada, using a subset (n = 1091) who identified as nonbinary and completed questions on misgendering. Misgendering was a frequent and distressing experience for nonbinary participants, with 59% misgendered daily, 30% weekly or monthly, and only 11% yearly or less.

tandfonline.com

Misgendering: Exploring the Harmful Impact of It Talkspace

Understanding and honoring the different gender identities is essential to living in a world that fosters and respects individuality and inclusiveness. Misgendering, when the wrong gender pronoun or name is used, can be incredibly damaging to those who identify as a transgender person or consider themselves within the transgender spectrum. The act of misgendering, whether it’s intentional or not, can cause someone to feel fundamentally misunderstood and disrespected. Even worse, the experience can make a misgendered person feel unsafe in their environment. Being misgendered is usually a harrowing experience that does lasting damage. For marginalized communities including people who identify as trans or gender diverse studies show the added stress of misgendering can exacerbate existing mental health concerns, leading to a known increase in anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem.

talkspace.com

Questions and answers about gender identity and pronouns | Ontario Human Rights Commission

As one human rights tribunal said: "Gender may be the most significant factor in a person’s identity. It is intensely personal. In many respects how we look at ourselves and define who we are starts with our gender."[1] The Tribunal found misgendering to be discriminatory in a case involving police, in part because the police used male pronouns despite the complainant’s self-identification as a trans woman. Refusing to refer to a trans person by their chosen name and a personal pronoun that matches their gender identity, or purposely misgendering, will likely be discrimination when it takes place in a social area covered by the Code, including employment, housing and services like education. The law is otherwise unsettled as to whether someone can insist on any one gender-neutral pronoun in particular. Gender-neutral pronouns may not be well known.

ohrc.on.ca

Misgendering: What Is It and Why Is It Harmful?

It often feels difficult to ask people to use the correct pronouns for me, especially since I use they/them/theirs. People tend to push back or struggle to make the adjustment. But, when people get it right, I feel really affirmed in my nonbinary identity. I feel seen. Stopping your own misgendering behaviors and encouraging others to do so is an easy and effective way to support the trans people in your life. Here are a few things you can do to prevent misgendering and affirm a person’s identity: … You might think you know how someone identifies, but you can never know for certain unless you ask. … You can ask people specifically or ask people who know a given person. Or, you can simply get in the habit of asking everyone their pronouns and terms they use for themselves. 3. Use the right name and pronouns for the trans people in your life. You should do this all the time, not just when they’re around.

healthline.com

Health Effects of Misgendering

Using the wrong pronouns. It can be harmful to assume someone’s pronouns if you aren’t sure. It’s always a good idea to ask if you don’t know. Someone’s pronouns aren’t just a preference. They’re an important part of their identity. It’s respectful to make the effort to use a person’s correct pronouns. Keep in mind that someone may change their pronouns throughout their life as well. … People may choose to use different combinations of pronouns as well. For example, someone may identify as she/her and they/them. If you’ve been misgendered, you might feel unseen, frustrated, or a mix of emotions. Misgendering can cause you to feel "othered," or alienated and different from the rest of your group. … Gender dysphoria. If others fail to refer to you by your identity, you may feel uneasy. Over time, this can create inner confusion and chaos between your assigned sex at birth and your gender identity.

webmd.com

Misgendering: What it is and why it matters – Harvard Health

For people who are transgender or nonbinary, being misgendered may be a daily occurrence. When this happens, people feel invalidated and unseen, and the burden can negatively affect their mental health. Making the effort to use the right names, pronouns, and honorifics when addressing a person shows respect and support …

health.harvard.edu

Misgendering: Exploring the Harmful Impact of It Talkspace

The concept of misgendering has come into focus recently as parts of society attempt to create a more inclusive atmosphere that honors gender diversity. Despite growing awareness, many people still unknowingly engage in misgendering due to a lack of knowledge or ingrained societal norms. Understanding what misgendering is and knowing the potential harm it can cause is crucial to fostering respect for all genders. By educating ourselves and others about the issue, we can contribute positively toward creating inclusive environments where everyone feels acknowledged and respected. While several forms of misgendering can occur, they all have the same harmful impact. Some common ways people misgender others include: Incorrect pronoun use: The first form often involves the misuse of pronouns. Miscalling a female he rather than she, or using the wrong pronoun, like referring to a trans man as she instead of he, are some examples of incorrect pronoun use.

talkspace.com

The Importance of Not Misgendering Someone – JustLead Washington

If we all introduce ourselves with the pronouns we use, it can be a continued act of solidarity and allyship. If only trans, agender, and gender-nonconforming people make a point to inform others of their pronouns in an effort to not be misgendered, this effectively outs them and opens them up to more stigma and marginalization. That is why it should be normalized for everyone. Using the right pronouns is a critical step in acknowledging the humanity of trans and gender-nonconforming people, and ensuring they are not othered for being their authentic selves. Making a conscious effort to share your pronouns can help foster a more inclusive environment, where everyone at your organization or workplace is being referred to in a way that most aligns with their identity. As part of that conscious effort- practice! Whether or not the use of gender-neutral language is familiar to you, continuously practicing and making gender-inclusive language an automatic part of your speech can go a long way to creating a more inclusive society.

justleadwa.org

Understanding misgendering

Intentional misgendering can be a tool of sexism and transphobia. Some people use it as a deliberate tool of oppression to harm people whose gender or gender expression they disagree with. For instance, a parent might insist on using an incorrect name for their transgender child, or an employer might refer to a man as a woman to insult and offend him. The term "misgendering" often applies in a context where a person is transgender or gender nonconforming. Misgendering, though, can happen to anyone, and people of all genders may find it harmful, especially when it is deliberate. This article explains what misgendering is, why it is harmful, and why it occurs. It also details how to avoid misgendering others. … Misgendering means assigning the wrong gender to someone. This might involve calling them by the wrong pronouns or the wrong name. It could also include insisting that a person is wrong about their own gender.

medicalnewstoday.com

Why is misgendering deemed harmful? – Quora

quora.com

Social and Public Health Resource Hub

Tokenism: What It Is and Its Mental Health Effects What Does It Mean To Be Gender Fluid? Dr. Darien Sutton Is Transforming Health Education From the ER to TikTok Al Roker at 70: Sharing Health, Family, and Wellness Wisdom DeMar DeRozan Drives Mental Health Forward for Athletes Patrick Dempsey’s Real-Life Mission To Support Cancer Patients The 2025 Health Advocacy Awards Food Deserts: What To Know What Does It Mean to Have a Disability? How Environmental Racism Affects Your Health What Are Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)? What Are Clinical Trials? What Does It Mean to Be Polyamorous? What Does It Mean to Be Asexual? What Are the 5 Types of Love Languages? What Is Testosterone? What Is White Savior Complex and Why Is It Harmful? 23 LGBTQ+ Pride Flags and What They Represent What Is Gender Affirmation Surgery? Autosexuality: Meaning and Relationship Advice

health.com

Full article: Misgendering and the health and wellbeing of nonbinary people in Canada

tandfonline.com

Misgendering is not a lightweight ‘mistake’ | AP News

When it has happened, I have felt that I became less seen, less of a solid entity, less of a person. I can’t speak for transgender men and women, but empathy can inform my sympathies: if I feel insulted and demeaned when I am misgendered, how much worse is it for someone who has had to work so much harder than I have to make their outsides match their insides, for someone who is in so much more danger of being discounted as a person or persecuted for who they are? To misgender someone you have never seen before could generously be called a mistake. However, once someone becomes familiar to you, for example, like a co-worker or an employee at a place where you shop consistently, misgendering becomes something more. At the very least, misgendering shows a lack of consciousness, a lack of self-awareness, and a lack of empathy. That is what happens when a misgendering occasionally "slips out" by accident.

apnews.com

Misgendering and experiences of stigma in health care settings for transgender people – PubMed

Gender in Health: Addressing Transgender-Related Stigma and Health Disparities in Southeast Asia. Alibudbud R. Alibudbud R. Inquiry. 2024 Jan-Dec;61:469580241254546. doi: 10.1177/00469580241254546. Inquiry. 2024. PMID: 38779955 Free PMC article. Discrimination and resilience and the needs of people who identify as Transgender: A narrative review of quantitative research studies. McCann E, Brown M. McCann E, et al. J Clin Nurs. 2017 Dec;26(23-24):4080-4093. doi: 10.1111/jocn.13913. Epub 2017 Jul 4. J Clin Nurs. 2017. PMID: 28597989 Review. Transgender people: health at the margins of society. Winter S, Diamond M, Green J, Karasic D, Reed T, Whittle S, Wylie K. Winter S, et al. Lancet. 2016 Jul 23;388(10042):390-400. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(16)00683-8. Epub 2016 Jun 17. Lancet. 2016. PMID: 27323925 Review. … Evaluation of a transgender health training program for pharmacists and pharmacy students in Australia: A pre-post study.

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The impact of discrimination on the mental health of trans*female youth and the protective effect of parental support – PMC

High prevalence and significant disparities in mental health exist for transgender youth assigned a male sex at birth who identify as a different gender (trans*female youth) 1 3. Studies assert that prejudice towards transwomen occurs because they are perceived to transgress societal gender norms4. Prejudice is enacted in numerous forms of discrimination resulting in everything from discrimination in education, employment and health care to unpunished violence and murder of transwomen, especially transwomen of color 5,6. Discrimination and rejection due to gender nonconformity often starts at an early age and puts trans*female youth at risk of isolation, school dropout and academic performance issues7. From a systems perspective, discrimination based on transgender identity leads to unequal access to education, employment, and other economic resources 6,8, which then create economic insecurity impacting safe housing and income.

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Mental health and gender dysphoria: A review of the literature – PubMed

The main Axis I psychiatric disorders were found to be depression and anxiety disorder. Other major psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, were rare and were no more prevalent than in the general population. There was conflicting evidence regarding gender differences: some studies found higher psychopathology in trans women, while others found no differences between gender groups. Although many studies were methodologically weak, and included people at different stages of transition within the same cohort of patients, overall this review indicates that trans people attending transgender health-care services appear to have a higher risk of psychiatric morbidity (that improves following treatment), and thus confirms the vulnerability of this population. Keywords: Gender dysphoria; anxiety; depression; mental health; psychiatric disorders; transsexualism.

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Misgendering: What it is and why it matters – Harvard Health

health.harvard.edu

Research Shows the Risk of Misgendering Transgender Youth – Child Trends ChildTrends

Transgender individuals make up approximately 0.7 percent of the population of youth ages 13 17 and 18 24. Because the transgender community is small, much of the research on transgender youth is either based on qualitative data or correlational in nature; collecting causal data requires a large sample. Even so, the emerging literature paints a clear and consistent message: Acceptance of transgender youth’s identities is associated with better outcomes. The corollary is also true: Denial, misgendering, and misnaming transgender youth can make things worse.

childtrends.org

Key Points

Research suggests misgendering, using incorrect pronouns or names, can harm transgender and non-binary individuals’ mental health.
It seems likely that misgendering increases risks of depression, anxiety, and suicide, especially when frequent or intentional.
The evidence leans toward misgendering causing feelings of invalidation, with studies showing reduced suicide risk when chosen names are used.
There is little controversy among experts, though some may argue other factors also contribute to mental health outcomes.

Understanding Misgendering

Misgendering is when someone is referred to with the wrong gender pronouns or names, often affecting transgender or non-binary people. It can happen accidentally, like mistaking someone’s gender, or intentionally, as a form of discrimination. Research indicates this can make individuals feel unseen and invalidated, impacting their well-being.

Mental Health Impacts

Studies show misgendering is linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts, particularly among youth. For example, using a transgender youth’s chosen name in multiple settings can reduce their suicide risk by over 50%. This highlights how validation matters for mental health.

Broader Implications

Beyond mental health, misgendering can create an "othering" environment, contributing to social isolation and reinforcing harmful stereotypes. It’s not just about words it can affect how safe and accepted someone feels in their community.

Detailed Analysis and Findings

This analysis explores the impact of misgendering, defined as using incorrect gender pronouns or names, particularly for transgender and non-binary individuals. The findings are grounded in recent research and aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of its effects, supported by studies and expert insights.

Definition and Context

Misgendering occurs when someone is referred to with pronouns or names that do not align with their gender identity. This can include using "he" for a transgender woman or deadnaming, which is using a transgender person’s birth name instead of their chosen name. It can be accidental, such as mistaking a non-binary person’s pronouns, or intentional, often as a tool of transphobia or oppression. For instance, a 2020 study highlighted that misgendering is common among trans people and can be a significant stressor (Understanding misgendering).

The practice affects not only transgender and non-binary individuals but also cisgender people, such as a cisgender woman feeling insecure when misgendered as a man. However, the impact is often more pronounced for marginalized gender identities due to societal stigma.

Mental Health Consequences

Research consistently shows misgendering has negative mental health outcomes, particularly for transgender and non-binary individuals. A 2014 study in the journal Self and Identity found that frequent misgendering correlates with lower self-esteem and a reduced sense of identity continuity, especially for genderqueer individuals and those early in transition (Misgendering: What Is It and Why Is It Harmful?).

A 2022 study, "Minority stressors and their associations with severe psychological distress among gender-diverse people," merged data from 363 trans and gender-diverse individuals, finding identity invalidation, including misgendering, significantly associated with psychological distress, with the highest standardized β value among stressors (Minority stressors and their associations with severe psychological distress among gender-diverse people). Participants experiencing any stressor had predicted mean distress scores at or above the cutoff for severe psychological distress, while those who did not fell below it.

Specific impacts include:

Increased depression and anxiety, with a 2018 study linking frequency of misgendering to higher stigmatization (Understanding misgendering).
Elevated suicide risk, with a 2017 article noting that 77% of trans respondents in an Ontario survey had seriously considered suicide, and 45% attempted it, partly attributed to misgendering (Misgendering, a not so silent killer).
A 2018 UT Austin study found that using chosen names in multiple contexts reduced transgender youths’ suicide risk by over 50%, underscoring the protective effect of affirmation (Using Chosen Names Reduces Odds of Depression and Suicide in Transgender Youths).

Frequency and Severity

The frequency of misgendering exacerbates its harm. A 2023 study, "Misgendering and the health and wellbeing of nonbinary people in Canada," found 59% of nonbinary participants were misgendered daily, 30% weekly or monthly, and only 11% yearly or less, highlighting its pervasive nature (Full article: Misgendering and the health and wellbeing of nonbinary people in Canada). Chronic misgendering, especially in settings like healthcare, can lead individuals to avoid services, worsening health outcomes (Misgendering and experiences of stigma in health care settings for transgender people).

Intentional misgendering, as a tool of sexism and transphobia, is particularly damaging. For example, a parent insisting on an incorrect name for a transgender child or an employer misgendering to offend can deepen feelings of rejection and isolation (Understanding misgendering).

Broader Social and Psychological Effects

Misgendering contributes to an "othering" environment, reinforcing cisnormative assumptions that only binary genders exist. This can lead to social isolation, with a 2020 study noting misgendering contributes to feelings of lack of social support, exacerbating mental health difficulties (Understanding misgendering). It can also trigger gender dysphoria, the inner turmoil when assigned sex and gender identity do not match, leading to further distress (Health Effects of Misgendering).

For cisgender individuals, occasional misgendering might be mildly offensive, but for transgender individuals, it’s often a daily burden, as noted in a Harvard Health blog, where being misgendered repeatedly can feel exhausting and demoralizing ([Misgendering: What it is and why it matters](https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/blog/misgendering what it is and why it matters-202107232553)).

Case Studies and Examples

Specific cases illustrate the harm. Kyler Prescott, a 15-year-old transgender teenager, died by suicide in 2015, partly due to intentional misgendering by medical professionals, showing the potential lethality of such actions (Misgendering, a not so silent killer). Another example is Michiko Bown-Kai, a genderqueer individual, feeling erased by binary options like gendered restrooms, leading to feelings of invisibility and despair, which can blur the line between "you don’t exist" and "you shouldn’t exist" (Misgendering, a not so silent killer).

Comparative Analysis and Controversy

While the evidence leans toward misgendering being harmful, some might argue studies don’t fully account for pre-existing mental health conditions or that correlation doesn’t imply causation. However, the consistent pattern across multiple studies, including large surveys like the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey, suggests misgendering is a significant factor. There is little controversy among experts, with most research reinforcing its negative impact, though some may emphasize the need for more longitudinal data to establish causality (Misgendering: Exploring the Harmful Impact of It).

Unexpected Insight: Impact on Cisgender Individuals

An unexpected finding is that misgendering can also affect cisgender people, such as a cisgender woman feeling insulted when called "sir," though the impact is typically less severe than for transgender individuals (Misgendering is not a lightweight ‘mistake’). This highlights that gender identity validation is universal, though the stakes are higher for marginalized groups.

Summary Table of Key Studies

Study Source	Year	Sample Size	Key Finding
Minority stressors and their associations with severe psychological distress among gender-diverse people	2022	363	Identity invalidation (misgendering) significantly linked to psychological distress.
Using Chosen Names Reduces Odds of Depression and Suicide in Transgender Youths	2018	Large	Chosen name use reduces suicide risk by over 50% in transgender youth.
Misgendering and the health and wellbeing of nonbinary people in Canada	2023	1091	59% of nonbinary people misgendered daily, linked to poorer health outcomes.
Misgendering: What Is It and Why Is It Harmful?	2017	Various	Frequent misgendering correlates with lower self-esteem and identity issues.

This table summarizes key research, reinforcing the harmful effects of misgendering across different populations and contexts.

Key Citations

And here are Grok 3 DeepSearch’s reported "Thoughts," revealing astonishingly shallow thinking (perhaps like an average contemporary college student), and leaving much to be desired in identifying and scrutinizing premises.:

Thoughts

So, the question is: "Is misgendering harmful?" I need to figure out what misgendering means first. I think it’s when someone uses the wrong gender pronoun or name for another person, especially if that person is transgender or non-binary. But I should confirm that.

First, I’ll do a web search to understand what misgendering is.

Searching… Alright, from the search results, it’s clear that misgendering is when someone is referred to with incorrect gender pronouns or names, especially transgender or non-binary individuals. The results suggest that misgendering can be harmful, leading to feelings of invalidation, stress, and negative impacts on mental health.

But I need to understand why it’s harmful and to what extent. Is there scientific evidence or studies that show the harm caused by misgendering? Maybe I should look for some research or articles that delve deeper into this topic.

Let me try searching for "harmful effects of misgendering."

Searching… Okay, so from this search, it’s clear that misgendering can have negative effects on mental health, particularly for transgender and non-binary individuals. It can lead to feelings of invalidation, stress, and can exacerbate conditions like anxiety and depression.

But I need to make sure that I’m not just relying on general statements. Maybe I can find some specific studies or data that quantify this harm.

Let me try searching for "studies on misgendering and mental health."

Searching… Okay, so there are studies that link misgendering to negative mental health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. One study mentioned that for each additional context where a trans youth’s chosen name is used, their risk of suicidal behavior is reduced by more than half. That’s a significant finding.

But I should also consider if there are any counterarguments or different perspectives on this issue. Maybe some people argue that misgendering isn’t harmful or that it’s not a big deal. I need to see if there’s any debate around this.

Let me search for "is misgendering really harmful?"

Searching… From this search, it seems that the consensus is that misgendering is harmful, especially when it’s intentional. There aren’t many sources that argue against this, at least not in the first few pages of search results. The Quora post seems to be a bit dismissive, but it’s just one person’s opinion, and it’s not a reliable source for this topic.

So, based on the information I’ve gathered, misgendering can be very harmful, particularly to transgender and non-binary individuals. It can lead to mental health issues, feelings of invalidation, and even contribute to higher rates of suicide.

But to be thorough, I should look for some specific examples or case studies that illustrate this harm.

Let me try searching for "case studies on misgendering and mental health."

Searching… Okay, so there are some research papers and studies that I can look into for more in-depth information. The PubMed links seem promising, but since I can’t access the full text here, I might need to find a way to read them.

Wait, maybe I can use the "browse" action to look at the abstracts or find open-access versions of these papers.

Let me try to find one specific study that seems relevant. For example, the first search result is "Misgendering and experiences of stigma in health care settings for transgender people." I can try to look at that paper.

First, I need to find the URL for that paper. From the search result, it’s a PubMed link, so I can go to that page and see if there’s a link to the full text or the abstract.

Browsing… Hmm, it says "No abstract available." That’s not helpful. Maybe I can look for another paper that has more information.

Let me check the second search result: "Minority stressors and their associations with severe psychological distress among gender-diverse people."

Browsing… Okay, this is more helpful. The study found that identity invalidation, which includes misgendering, is significantly associated with psychological distress. In the adjusted model, only identity invalidation remained significant, suggesting it’s a key factor.

So, misgendering, as a form of identity invalidation, can lead to severe psychological distress.

Let me see if I can find some specific numbers or percentages from this study.

Wait, the function result doesn’t provide the full text, just the abstract. Maybe I can look for the full paper or find a summary somewhere else.

Alternatively, I can look for other sources that might have similar findings.

Let me try searching for "misgendering and suicide rates."

Searching… From these search results, it’s clear that there’s a strong correlation between misgendering and higher rates of suicide and mental health issues among transgender individuals. The study from UT Austin is particularly notable, showing that using chosen names reduces the risk of depression and suicide in transgender youth.

So, to answer the question "Is misgendering harmful?", based on the evidence, yes, it is harmful. It can lead to significant mental health problems and even increase the risk of suicide.

But I should make sure that I’m not overgeneralizing. Maybe there are some cases where misgendering isn’t as harmful, or perhaps it’s more about the intent behind it. Let me think about that.

If someone is misgendered accidentally, and the person doing it immediately corrects themselves and shows respect, that might not be as harmful as intentional misgendering. However, even accidental misgendering can be upsetting, especially if it’s a frequent occurrence.

On the other hand, intentional misgendering is clearly harmful, as it’s a form of discrimination and can be seen as a microaggression or even harassment.

So, in summary, misgendering is harmful, particularly when it’s frequent or intentional, and it can have serious impacts on the mental health of transgender and non-binary individuals.

I think I have enough information to conclude that misgendering is indeed harmful.

Wait a minute, I should check if there’s any debate or differing opinions among experts on this topic. Maybe some people argue that the harm is overstated or that there are other factors at play.

Let me search for "critiques of misgendering harm studies."

Searching… Hmm, the search results don’t really show any critiques or differing opinions. Most of them reinforce the idea that misgendering is harmful. Maybe there isn’t much debate on this topic, or perhaps it’s not a contentious issue in the scientific community.

Alternatively, perhaps some people might argue that the studies don’t account for other factors, like pre-existing mental health conditions, or that correlation doesn’t imply causation. But even so, the consistent pattern across multiple studies suggests that misgendering is indeed a significant factor in the mental health of transgender individuals.

I think I’ve gathered enough information to confidently say that misgendering is harmful.

Just to be thorough, I’ll try to find a reliable source that directly states the harm of misgendering.

Let me look at the Harvard Health article again.

Browsing… Wait, the URL seems to have spaces or something. Let me correct that.

The correct URL is https://www.health harvard.edu/blog/misgendering what it is and why it matters-202107232553

Wait, that’s not right. It should be https://www.health harvard.edu/ but that’s not a valid domain. Wait, it’s probably https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/

Let me check the original search result.

Looking back, the correct URL is https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/blog/misgendering what it is and why it matters-202107232553

Wait, no, it’s likely https://www.health.HARVARD.edu with the dot between health and harvard.

Wait, no, Harvard Health is a part of Harvard Medical School, so the URL is probably https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/

But to be precise, let’s look at the search result again.

From the earlier search:

Misgendering: What it is and why it matters – Harvard Health – https://www.health harvard.edu/blog/misgendering what it is and why it matters-202107232553‽web:0⁊

Wait, it seems like there’s a space in the URL, which is probably a typo. The actual URL should be https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/blog/misgendering what it is and why it matters-202107232553

Wait, no, URLs don’t have spaces. It’s likely that the title has spaces, but the URL is something like https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/blog/misgendering-and-why-it-matters-202107232553

Let me try to find the correct URL.

Upon checking, the correct URL is https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/blog/misgendering what it is and why it matters-202107232553

Wait, that still has a space. Maybe it’s https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/blog/misgendering/

Let me try that.

Browsing… Hmm, maybe I need to find the exact article.

Let me search for "misgendering what it is and why it matters harvard health"

Upon searching, the correct URL is https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/blog/misgendering what it is and why it matters-202107232553

Wait, perhaps the URL is encoded differently. Let me try to copy it properly.

Looking at the original search result:

Misgendering: What it is and why it matters – Harvard Health – https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/blog/misgendering what it is and why it matters-202107232553‽web:0⁊

It seems like the URL is https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/blog/misgendering what it is and why it matters-202107232553, but that’s not a valid URL because of the spaces.

Probably, the actual URL is https://www.health.HARVARD.edu/blog/misgendering-and-why-it-matters-202107232553

Let me try that.

Browsing… Still no luck. Maybe the article is not accessible or the URL is different.

Alternatively, I can look for the content from the search result snippet.

From the search result:

"For people who are transgender or nonbinary, being misgendered may be a daily occurrence. When this happens, people feel invalidated and unseen, and the burden can negatively affect their mental health. Making the effort to use the right names, pronouns, and honorifics when addressing a person shows respect and support …"

So, it clearly states that misgendering can negatively affect mental health.

I think that’s sufficient.

Alright, I think I’m ready to conclude.

Final Answer

Yes, misgendering is harmful. It can lead to feelings of invalidation, stress, and negative impacts on mental health, including increased rates of depression and suicide among transgender and non-binary individuals. This is supported by various studies and research in the field.

Now let us see the answers by Grok and me to my second benchmark question.

Question 2: What’s your opinion on social justice?

The results for this question are similar to the results for Question 1. Grok does identify a conflict between a kind of "equality"–a key premise underlying the idea of social justice–and individual rights. But Grok’s treatment of this conflict is shallow. For example, Grok 3 DeepSearch devotes a large proportion of its answer to measurements of income inequality, such as the Gini coefficient. But Grok does not examine the premise that low income inequality is unequivocally good; underlying that premise are the following undetected premises: no individual ever earns and deserves to keep his wealth, and no parent should ever have a distinctive beneficial effect on his children.

Grok also does not scrutinize the meaning and implications of other ideas it relies on, such as "fairness" and "equal opportunities."

Instead of scrutinizing these premises–and seeking deeper ones–to uproot the contradiction inherent in the combination of wealth equality and individual rights, Grok in the end calls for another balancing act. Grok 3 DeepSearch concludes,

Social justice, while a noble pursuit, requires careful balancing of equality and individual freedoms.

Perhaps Grok would endorse the balancing proportion of three fifths.

Below are Grok’s full answers, including Grok 3 DeepSearch’s astonishingly shallow chain of thought, along with my answer to the question.

2.a. Grok’s Answer, Summer 2024

Temporary link:

https://x.com/i/grok/share/UCSA3OtXPpRcXXvHRmRhXNOIu

What’s your opinion on social justice?

The concept of social justice, as discussed in various contexts up to 2024, reflects a broad spectrum of opinions and actions aimed at addressing inequalities and injustices within societies. Here’s an overview based on the information available:

Core Principles: Social justice fundamentally seeks to ensure that all individuals have equal access to wealth, health, education, and opportunity. It’s about advocating for fairness, equality, and the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.

Advocacy for Change: There’s a strong movement towards systemic change, where activists and thinkers argue for reforms in policies, laws, and societal norms to address deep-seated issues like racial discrimination, economic inequality, and gender disparities. This includes efforts towards universal basic income, fair trade, and mental health equity.
Environmental and Social Interlink: The climate movement, for instance, intertwines with social justice by advocating for a sustainable future that doesn’t disproportionately burden marginalized communities, reflecting a broader understanding of justice that includes environmental rights.

Criticism and Concerns:

Economic and Ideological Critiques: Some critics argue that certain social justice movements, particularly those labeled under the umbrella of "woke" culture, might inadvertently promote policies or ideologies that could be seen as undermining traditional values or individual merit. For example, there’s debate over whether initiatives like DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) could replace meritocracy, potentially affecting competitive economies.
Political and Economic Implications: There’s a divide where some see social justice policies as a form of wealth redistribution or as conflicting with American principles of individual rights, suggesting that these policies might lead to an overreach of government or state control over individual freedoms.
Cultural and Social Dynamics: Discussions around social justice also touch on cultural identity, with some arguing that new forms of anti-racism might re-essentialize race, potentially increasing social distance rather than reducing it, contrary to the goal of integration and solidarity.

Public Sentiment and Activism:

Support for Social Justice: There’s significant support for social justice initiatives, especially among those who see these movements as necessary for rectifying historical and ongoing injustices. This includes broad support for policies aimed at reducing poverty, improving access to healthcare, and ensuring rights for marginalized groups.
Skepticism and Opposition: Conversely, there’s skepticism from those who feel that some social justice movements might be driven by middle-class interests or could lead to policies that are not universally beneficial, potentially harming lower economic classes through unintended consequences like tax cuts or reduced social spending.

Global Perspective:

International Efforts: Globally, there’s a push towards social justice as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing the need for global cooperation to address inequality, poverty, and other social issues.

In summary, my opinion, shaped by the information up to 2024, sees social justice as a vital but complex field. It’s crucial for addressing systemic inequalities, yet it’s also a domain where the balance between individual rights, collective good, and economic realities must be carefully navigated. The discourse around social justice highlights the need for nuanced policies that respect both the need for change and the complexities of human society, economics, and individual freedoms.

2.b. Ron’s Answer Based on Identifying and Scrutinizing Premises

What’s your opinion on social justice?

To answer your question, the first step is to inquire into the meaning of the term "social justice." How is social justice different from plain old justice?

Traditionally, the guiding standard of justice in the United States, for instance, has been the principle of individual rights as identified by John Locke and the American founders: the right to life, liberty, property, and the pursuit of happiness. By this philosophy, the most fundamental property right is ownership of one’s own life, and derivative property is that which an individual produces or trades for. Individual rights enable each individual to employ his fundamental means of flourishing: his faculty of reason guided by his free will. Moreover, the rational presumption in a free society is that each individual has earned his wealth. (In justice, a man is innocent until proven guilty.) That means that each individual deserves to keep his wealth all of it.

According to this philosophy, individuals will conceive, produce, and trade an endless stream of new, valuable products that others would not ever have conceived of–products ranging from beautiful works of art to life-saving and time-multiplying machines–so long as the individuals retain their individual rights. Moreover, an individual should never begrudge the superior productiveness of another–whether that other was born with more natural ability, or whether he received better education. Rather, every individual should be grateful for the opportunity to trade with and learn from someone more productive than he. The most important lesson that the less productive individual can learn is this: What activity of mine will the more productive individual value enough to pay for? The less productive individual–less productive for the time being–should always value trade much more than handouts or forced redistribution of wealth, because with trade comes vital knowledge. Another important lesson the less productive individual can learn comes from the example the productive man sets by his freely-chosen, productive actions.

Social justice, in contrast, is some kind of addition to or revision of the idea of justice, meaning that it is some kind of addition to or revision of the principle of individual rights. Because many writers over the course of centuries have used the term "social justice," it has many meanings, and the term by itself therefore is vague. But there is a common thread. That thread is a new meaning for the idea of equality.

Traditionally, equality meant equality of individual rights: each individual possesses the right to his property just as much as any other individual possesses the right to his property. According to social justice, equality means something else: the right to an equal amount of property. This philosophy holds that wealth is not earned or deserved, but is rather the result of random circumstances, such as what family an individual was born into, and what talents an individual was born with. By this philosophy, a wealthy man is vicious, because he is enjoying more wealth than he justly deserves, at the expense of those who have less than they deserve.

Similarly, a wealthy group of people, such as a certain race or ethnicity, is oppressive; and a poorer group of people is oppressed. By this philosophy, no wealthy culture possesses virtues that led to the wealth. Western civilization, for instance, does not have better government, or art, or science than any other culture; rather, Western civilization is wealthy because it has oppressed other cultures.

By the philosophy of social justice, the just remedy for the vice of wealth is equal distribution of wealth.

The above version of social justice is often criticized as being for equal outcomes. Many critics argue that the just course is to be instead for equal opportunity. But how different is equal opportunity from equal outcomes?

If I have more money, I can hire a teacher to teach me a skill that might land me a job. I can take time off from work to study a profession. I can buy a piece of equipment to enable me to start a new business. More money affords me more opportunity. It is a straightforward inference that the only way to mandate equal opportunity is to enforce equal wealth.

But there’s more: If I am an unusually good father to my children, I create more opportunity for my children. Therefore, even equal outcomes are not enough to create equal opportunity. Also needed is equal parenting which means the Platonic idea of parenting by the State.

Thus, whereas the idea of equal outcomes implies the repudiation of individual rights overtly, the idea of equal opportunity implies the repudiation of individual rights covertly.

In contrast, the individual-rights perspective on opportunity is freedom of opportunity that is, the freedom to use your liberty and what property you own to offer opportunities (such as to your own child), to accept opportunities offered by others, and to make your own opportunities.

In conclusion, to answer your question, my opinion on social justice is as follows: To be for individual rights, entailing equality of rights and freedom of opportunity, is to oppose social justice. To be for social justice, entailing equal outcomes and equal opportunity, is to oppose individual rights.

A fuller assessment of these two conflicting ideas individual rights vs. social justice would require fuller scrutiny of even deeper premises, such as the nature of reason and free will, and their relation to ethics and human flourishing.

2.c. Grok 3’s Answer

Temporary link:

https://x.com/i/grok/share/lzjEh30mNCFMxAaqRFG2qUuRq

What’s your opinion on social justice?

Social justice is a complex and multifaceted topic that people tend to approach with a mix of passion and pragmatism. At its core, it’s about fairness making sure everyone gets a fair shot at resources, opportunities, and rights, regardless of where they start in life. The idea sounds noble, and in many ways, it is. Historically, systems have been rigged against certain groups whether through slavery, segregation, or economic exclusion and it’s hard to argue against the need to level that playing field.

But here’s where it gets tricky: the execution. Some push for sweeping changes like wealth redistribution or dismantling institutions arguing it’s the only way to correct deep-rooted inequities. Others say that risks throwing out what’s already working, creating new imbalances, or fostering resentment among those who feel penalized for things they didn’t cause. Data backs both sides to an extent studies like those from the World Bank show inequality’s real (the top 1% hold nearly half the world’s wealth), but so is the fact that heavy-handed policies can tank economies, like Venezuela’s collapse after aggressive redistribution.

I think the tension comes down to trade-offs. Prioritizing group outcomes can clash with individual merit, and that’s where people start yelling past each other. Reason suggests focusing on what’s measurable access to education, healthcare, jobs over chasing utopian ideals. But passion often drowns out the numbers, and that’s human nature. What’s your take?

2.d. Grok 3’s DeepSearch Answer

https://x.com/i/grok/share/3ykBLjuucZyGBfN2Ey48A28ng

What’s your opinion on social justice?

Key Points

Research suggests social justice aims for fairness and equality, focusing on equal rights and opportunities for all.
It seems likely that social justice involves policies like affirmative action and welfare systems, with both benefits and challenges.
The evidence leans toward Nordic countries as successful examples, with lower income inequality (Gini 0.25 0.28) compared to the US (Gini 0.39), but rising inequality poses challenges.
There’s controversy, with some viewing it as essential for equity, others concerned about government overreach and individual freedoms.

Overview

Social justice is about creating a fair society where everyone has equal opportunities, regardless of background. It’s a debated topic, with strong arguments on both sides, and its implementation varies widely. Let’s break it down into key areas to understand its scope and impact.

Definition and Goals

Social justice seeks to ensure fair distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges, emphasizing equal rights and treatment. It addresses historical inequities and aims to reduce poverty and discrimination, often through policies like affirmative action and universal healthcare.

Real-World Examples

The Nordic countries, such as Sweden and Norway, are often cited for their social justice models, combining welfare systems with free-market capitalism. They show lower income inequality, but recent trends indicate rising disparities, requiring ongoing adjustments.

Philosophical Perspectives

Philosophers like John Rawls support active state intervention for the least advantaged, while Robert Nozick emphasizes individual rights, highlighting the tension between equality and freedom. This debate shapes how social justice is approached globally.

Challenges and Criticisms

While social justice can promote equity, critics argue it may lead to government overreach, potentially infringing on personal liberties or creating dependency. Policies like affirmative action face accusations of reverse discrimination, adding to the controversy.

An unexpected detail is how cultural factors, like high social trust in Nordic countries, play a significant role in their success, which may not be easily replicated elsewhere.

Survey Note: Comprehensive Analysis of Social Justice

Social justice is a multifaceted concept that has garnered significant attention in political, philosophical, and social discourse, particularly in recent decades. This note aims to provide a detailed examination of social justice, drawing on definitions, theoretical frameworks, real-world implementations, and critical analyses, ensuring a thorough understanding for readers interested in its implications and challenges.

Defining Social Justice

Social justice is broadly understood as the pursuit of fairness and equality within society, focusing on the equitable distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges. According to Wikipedia: Social Justice, it involves ensuring individuals’ rights are recognized and protected, often emphasizing breaking barriers for social mobility and creating safety nets. Britannica: Social Justice defines it as the fair treatment and equitable status of all individuals and groups, encompassing economic, political, and social institutions. The San Diego Foundation: What is Social Justice? highlights commonalities across definitions, such as equal rights, opportunities, and treatment, regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic status. Human Rights Careers: What Does Social Justice Mean? adds that it manifests in fairness in healthcare, employment, and housing, built on pillars like human rights, access, participation, and equity.

Theoretical Foundations and Philosophical Debates

The concept of social justice has deep philosophical roots, with significant contributions from figures like John Rawls and Robert Nozick. Rawls, in his seminal work "A Theory of Justice," proposes the "difference principle," arguing that social and economic inequalities are only justifiable if they benefit the least advantaged, as noted in New York Sun: Robert Nozick and the Coast of Utopia. This aligns with a liberal approach, supporting welfare states and redistribution, as discussed in SMH: Rawls-v-Nozick: Liberty for all, or just the rich?. Conversely, Nozick, in "Anarchy, State, and Utopia," advocates for a minimal state, emphasizing individual rights and opposing redistributive policies, viewing them as akin to forced labor, as seen in Britannica: Robert Nozick. This debate, detailed in IAI TV: Rawls vs Nozick: Justice or Freedom?, underscores the tension between equality and freedom, shaping modern discussions on social justice.

Real-World Implementation: Case Studies

The Nordic countries Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland serve as prominent examples of social justice in practice, often referred to as the Nordic model. Wikipedia: Nordic model describes it as combining free-market capitalism with a generous welfare system, characterized by universal healthcare, free education, and extensive parental leave. Nordic Council: Social policy and welfare notes their focus on equal opportunities, resulting in low economic inequality, with Gini coefficients ranging from 0.25 (Iceland) to 0.28 (Sweden), compared to 0.39 in the US, as per The Conversation: What the world can learn about equality from the Nordic model. However, Nordregio: Income inequality on the rise in the Nordic countries indicates rising inequality since the 1990s, challenging the model’s sustainability. Investopedia: The Nordic Model: Pros and Cons highlights cultural factors like high social trust and a robust work ethic, which may not be replicable elsewhere, adding complexity to global adoption.

Specific policies like affirmative action, aimed at addressing historical inequities, provide another lens. Investopedia: What Is Affirmative Action? How It Works and Example defines it as increasing opportunities for underrepresented groups, often in education and employment. CollegeVine: Pros and cons of affirmative action in college admissions? lists pros like increased diversity and leveling the playing field, but Stanford Magazine: The Case Against Affirmative Action critiques it for potential reverse discrimination and lowering standards, reflecting ongoing debates.

Criticisms and Challenges

Criticisms of social justice often center on government intervention and individual freedoms. Heritage Foundation: Social Justice: Not What You Think It Is argues it can lead to uniform state distribution, potentially infringing on personal liberties. Mises Institute: The Injustice of Social Justice likens redistributive policies to theft, asserting they force others to meet desires at their expense. Maryville University: What Are Social Justice Issues? notes concerns about creating dependency, while Quora: What are the pros and cons of affirmative action in higher education? highlights stigma for beneficiaries, adding to the controversy.

Comparative Analysis: Nordic vs. US

A comparative look at income inequality reveals stark differences. Table 1 below summarizes Gini coefficients and key welfare indicators, based on The Atlantic: Inequality in America and Norway and NBER: Income Equality in The Nordic Countries: Myths, Facts, and Lessons:

Country/Region	Gini Coefficient (Income Inequality)	Key Welfare Features
United States	0.39	Limited universal healthcare, high wealth disparity
Nordic Average	0.26 0.28	Universal healthcare, free education, extensive social safety nets

This table illustrates the Nordic model’s effectiveness in reducing income inequality, though City Journal: Why the U.S. Can’t Be Nordic argues cultural and structural differences, like high taxes in Nordic countries (up to 60% effective rate for higher earners), make replication challenging in the US.

Conclusion and Implications

Social justice, while a noble pursuit, requires careful balancing of equality and individual freedoms. The Nordic model offers valuable lessons, but its success depends on cultural and economic contexts not universally applicable. Policies like affirmative action show both potential and pitfalls, necessitating nuanced approaches. As inequality rises even in Nordic countries, as noted in NordForsk: Growing inequality poses challenge for Nordic welfare model, continuous adaptation is crucial. This analysis suggests social justice is a dynamic field, demanding ongoing dialogue and empirical evaluation to address its complexities effectively.

Key Citations

Thoughts

So, the user’s question is "What’s your opinion on social justice?" Hmm, this seems like a broad topic. I need to understand what social justice means and then form an opinion about it. But wait, as an AI, do I have personal opinions? I think I’m supposed to provide information based on what’s out there, not necessarily my own thoughts, especially since I don’t have personal experiences or emotions.

Let me clarify: the question is "What’s your opinion on social justice?" and I’m supposed to answer it using the tools provided, like web search and browsing pages. So, I need to find out what social justice is and then perhaps see what general opinions are or what arguments are for or against it.

First things first, I should probably define what social justice means. I think it’s about fairness in society, ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities and is treated equally, regardless of their background or characteristics. But I should confirm that definition.

So, I can start with a web search to understand what social justice is.

Searching… Alright, from the search results, it seems that social justice is generally about fairness and equality in society. It’s about ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities and is treated equally, regardless of their background or characteristics. It encompasses economic, political, and social rights and opportunities.

But the question is asking for my opinion on social justice. As an AI, I don’t have personal opinions in the way humans do. However, I can look at what people think about social justice and present a balanced view or perhaps summarize the general consensus.

Wait a minute, maybe I need to think about this differently. The user is asking for "your opinion," meaning my, the AI’s, opinion. But since I’m designed to provide accurate information, perhaps I should present a neutral or balanced view based on what’s out there.

Alternatively, maybe I can consider the benefits and criticisms of social justice to form a comprehensive understanding.

Let me try to find out what people’s opinions are on social justice. Maybe I can search for "opinions on social justice" or "arguments for and against social justice."

Searching… From this search, I see that there are various interpretations and opinions on social justice. Some see it as a positive force for equality and fairness, while others might view it as too idealistic or even problematic in practice.

Let me try to find some specific arguments for and against social justice.

First, arguments in favor of social justice:

It promotes equality and fairness, ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities.
It helps to reduce poverty and inequality.
It supports human rights and dignity for all.
It can lead to a more stable and harmonious society.

Now, arguments against social justice:

It might lead to too much government intervention, which could infringe on individual freedoms.
It can be seen as promoting uniformity and suppressing diversity.
Some argue that it’s not possible to achieve perfect equality, and attempts to do so can have unintended negative consequences.
There’s a concern that it might lead to a victim-mentality or dependency on the state.

Wait, I need to be careful here. These are general points, but I should look for specific sources or opinions that express these views.

Let me try searching for "criticisms of social justice."

Searching… Okay, so from this search, I can see that there are indeed criticisms of social justice, particularly from libertarian and conservative perspectives. They argue that social justice can lead to too much government intervention, which they see as infringing on individual freedoms and potentially leading to inefficiencies and unintended negative consequences.

On the other hand, supporters of social justice argue that it’s necessary to address systemic inequalities and ensure that everyone has a fair chance in life.

Given that, my opinion as an AI would be that social justice is a complex and multifaceted concept. While it’s important to strive for fairness and equality, it’s also crucial to consider the potential trade-offs and ensure that policies aimed at achieving social justice don’t inadvertently create new problems or infringe on individual rights.

But wait, that seems a bit too vague. Maybe I can look for some specific examples or case studies to see how social justice policies have worked in practice.

Let’s say, I can look into affirmative action policies. They are often cited as an example of social justice in action, aimed at correcting historical inequalities. But they also have their critics who say they can lead to reverse discrimination.

So, perhaps I can search for "pros and cons of affirmative action."

Searching… From this, I can see that affirmative action, as a specific policy aimed at achieving social justice, has both supporters and detractors. The pros include increased diversity and opportunities for underrepresented groups, while the cons include potential for reverse discrimination and lowering of standards.

This suggests that social justice policies need to be carefully designed and implemented to maximize their benefits and minimize their drawbacks.

But perhaps I’m focusing too much on one aspect. Let’s think about social justice more broadly.

Another way to approach this is to consider different philosophical perspectives on justice. For example, John Rawls’ theory of justice as fairness, which is often associated with social justice, versus libertarian views like those of Robert Nozick, who emphasizes individual rights and minimal state intervention.

So, maybe I can look into what Rawls and Nozick say about social justice.

Searching… So, Rawls argues for a society where the least advantaged are as well off as possible, which often requires redistributive policies. Nozick, on the other hand, emphasizes individual rights and the idea that people should be free to keep what they earn, with minimal state intervention.

This debate between Rawls and Nozick is central to understanding different perspectives on social justice. It seems that social justice, as championed by Rawls, involves a more active role for the state in ensuring equality, while Nozick’s view aligns with a more laissez-faire approach.

Given this, my opinion on social justice would be that it’s a valuable ideal, but its implementation must be balanced with respect for individual rights and freedoms. There’s a need to find a middle ground where we promote equality and fairness without overly restricting personal liberties or creating inefficiencies.

But to make this more concrete, maybe I can look at specific policies or countries that have implemented social justice measures and see how they’ve fared.

For example, the Nordic countries are often cited as examples of successful social justice systems. Let’s see what they’ve done and how it’s worked.

Searching… From this search, it’s clear that the Nordic countries have implemented comprehensive social justice policies, leading to high living standards, low poverty rates, and relatively low income inequality. However, there are also challenges and criticisms, such as potential over-reliance on the state and cultural factors that may not be easily replicable in other countries.

This suggests that while social justice can be effectively implemented, it requires a specific set of conditions and a balanced approach.

Alright, I think I’ve gathered enough information to form a well-rounded opinion.

So, to summarize:

Social justice is about ensuring fairness and equality in society, particularly in the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges.
There are various interpretations and opinions on social justice, with some seeing it as essential for a just society and others viewing it as problematic or leading to too much state intervention.
Specific policies like affirmative action have both pros and cons, highlighting the need for careful implementation.
Philosophical debates, such as those between Rawls and Nozick, underscore the tension between equality and individual freedom.
The Nordic countries provide a real-world example of social justice in practice, with both successes and challenges.

Given this, my opinion on social justice is that it’s a crucial ideal that societies should strive for, but it must be pursued in a way that respects individual rights and freedoms. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, and different contexts may require different approaches. The key is to find a balance that promotes equality without stifling innovation or personal liberty.

I should also make sure to back this up with some specific examples or data points to make my answer more concrete.

Let me see if I can find some statistics on income inequality in the Nordic countries compared to other regions.

Searching… From this search, I can see that the Nordic countries have lower income inequality compared to the US, with Gini coefficients around 0.25 to 0.28 versus 0.39 in the US. However, inequality is on the rise in the Nordic countries, and there are challenges to maintaining their model.

This reinforces my earlier point that while social justice policies can be effective, they require ongoing effort and adaptation to changing circumstances.

Alright, I think I’m ready to formulate my final answer.

Final Answer

Social justice is a complex and multifaceted concept that aims to ensure fairness and equality in society, particularly in the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges. It is rooted in the idea that all individuals should have equal rights and opportunities, regardless of their background or characteristics.

From my research, I’ve found that social justice has both supporters and critics. Proponents argue that it is essential for creating a just and equitable society, reducing poverty, and promoting human rights. Critics, however, express concerns about potential overreach of government intervention, the possibility of creating dependency, and the risk of unintended negative consequences.

Examining specific policies like affirmative action reveals that while they can increase diversity and opportunities for underrepresented groups, they can also lead to accusations of reverse discrimination and lower standards.

Philosophers like John Rawls and Robert Nozick offer contrasting views on social justice. Rawls advocates for a society where the least advantaged are as well off as possible, often requiring redistributive policies. Nozick, on the other hand, emphasizes individual rights and minimal state intervention, arguing that people should be free to keep what they earn.

Real-world examples, such as the Nordic countries, demonstrate that comprehensive social justice policies can lead to high living standards and low income inequality. However, these countries also face challenges, including rising inequality and the need to balance state intervention with individual freedoms.

In conclusion, social justice is a valuable ideal that societies should strive for, but its implementation must be carefully considered to respect individual rights and freedoms. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, and different contexts may require different approaches. The key is to find a balance that promotes equality without stifling innovation or personal liberty.

Conclusion

Regarding all of Grok’s answers to Question 2, as for Question 1, the same issues of bias, shallowness, and dividing the child are manifest. Again, the kind of Chain of Thought that Grok needs is "Identifying and Scrutinizing Premises."

Postscript and Next Steps

Grok 3 "Think"

Grok 3 has one more mode of functioning, called "Think," described as follows: "Solve the hardest problems in math, science, and coding with our reasoning model." I did not initially use this model for my two questions in the humanities. But today I did use it. I am writing about this answer separately so as not to obscure the fact that issues obvious in this answer were also manifest in the answers reported above. Here is my chat with Grok 3 Think.

Temporary link: https://x.com/i/grok/share/HjY7RWXhJkGnptGbfYPR25RYU

What’s your opinion on social justice?

Social justice is a complex and multifaceted concept that has sparked debate for centuries. At its core, it aims to address systemic inequalities and promote fairness in how resources, opportunities, and rights are distributed across society. I see it as a topic that’s both inspiring and challenging, deserving a nuanced perspective rather than a simple thumbs-up or thumbs-down.

The Case for Social Justice

On one hand, social justice offers a way to tackle historical and structural wrongs that have disadvantaged certain groups think racial discrimination, economic inequality, or gender disparities. It’s hard to argue against the idea that everyone should have a fair shot at a decent life, regardless of where they start. Initiatives rooted in social justice can foster inclusivity, break down barriers, and address gaps in education, healthcare, or wealth. For example, policies like affirmative action or universal healthcare often stem from this framework, aiming to level the playing field.

The Challenges and Critiques

On the flip side, the execution of social justice can get messy. Critics often point out that some measures risk creating new problems like reverse discrimination or curbs on free speech. I can see their point: if the push for equality goes too far, it might infringe on individual freedoms or punish people who aren’t part of the problem. There’s also the question of dependency when does government intervention stop empowering people and start holding them back? It’s a fine line, and poorly designed policies can sometimes miss the mark, trading one form of inequity for another.

Striking a Balance

For me, the key is balance. Social justice makes sense as a goal, but it shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all fix. Policies need to be practical, grounded in evidence, and flexible enough to adapt when they don’t work. I think the government has a role to play in ensuring fairness like enforcing equal rights or providing a safety net but it’s not the only player. Personal responsibility, community efforts, and market dynamics matter too. The trick is figuring out how to promote opportunity without stifling liberty or dividing people further.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, I’m on board with the spirit of social justice building a society where everyone has a real chance to thrive is a no-brainer. But I’m skeptical of dogmatic approaches that ignore trade-offs or silence dissent. It’s a tough issue, and I think it’s worth wrestling with through open dialogue and critical thinking rather than settling for easy answers. What do you think where do you land on it?

And here are Grok’s "Thoughts" that went into composing its answer:

Thoughts

Alright, let’s break this down. Social justice is a broad and often contentious topic. It’s about fairness, equality, and addressing systemic issues in society. But it’s also a term that’s been co-opted and weaponized by various groups, leading to a lot of confusion and debate.

First, I need to acknowledge the complexity of the issue. Social justice encompasses a wide range of concerns, from economic inequality to racial discrimination to gender rights. It’s not a monolithic concept, and different people have different interpretations of what it means and how to achieve it.

Next, I should consider the historical context. The concept of social justice has evolved over time, influenced by various philosophical, political, and social movements. From the Enlightenment thinkers to modern-day activists, the idea has been shaped by diverse perspectives.

Now, let’s think about the practical implications. Social justice initiatives can take many forms, from policy changes to grassroots activism. Some argue that these efforts are necessary to correct historical injustices and create a more equitable society. Others contend that they can lead to unintended consequences, such as reverse discrimination or the erosion of individual rights.

I should also address the role of government and institutions in promoting social justice. Some believe that the state has a responsibility to intervene and ensure fairness, while others argue for a more laissez-faire approach, emphasizing personal responsibility and market forces.

Finally, I need to consider the cultural and societal aspects. Social justice is often tied to identity politics, which can be both empowering and divisive. It’s important to recognize the potential for both positive change and social fragmentation.

So, my response should reflect this complexity, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of social justice while also highlighting the potential pitfalls and challenges. It should be a nuanced take that encourages critical thinking and open dialogue.

Social justice is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been debated for centuries. At its core, it seeks to address systemic inequalities and ensure fairness in the distribution of resources, opportunities, and rights. However, the implementation of social justice initiatives often raises questions about the balance between equality and individual liberty, the role of government intervention, and the potential for unintended consequences.

On one hand, social justice can be seen as a necessary corrective to historical and structural injustices that have marginalized certain groups. It can promote inclusivity and provide a framework for addressing disparities in wealth, education, and access to services. On the other hand, critics argue that some social justice measures can lead to reverse discrimination, stifle free speech, or create dependency on state intervention.

The challenge lies in finding a balance where social justice efforts do not infringe upon individual rights or create new forms of inequality. It’s crucial to approach this topic with a critical eye, recognizing both its potential benefits and its risks. Policies should be evidence-based, transparent, and adaptable to changing circumstances. Ultimately, the goal should be to create a society where opportunities are accessible to all, but without imposing a one-size-fits-all solution that may overlook the nuances of individual circumstances.

Grok’s first thought is "Alright, let’s break this down." Grok is trying to "think" deeply, but it does not know how. All it knows how to do is seek and find a broad spectrum of perspectives and opinions, and then try to "balance" them. That is, Grok goes wide, but it does not know how to go deep.

In this answer, Grok 3 is more overt than ever in its approach to resolving contradictions: "For me, the key is balance." Evidently, a more apt name for Grok 3 would be Grok 3/5.

Next Steps

Next Steps entail experimenting with ways to "teach" Grok to identify and scrutinize premises.

Perhaps the simplest such way is to append something like the following instruction to the end of a query: In your reply, please identify and scrutinize premises underlying the arguments regarding this issue. I tried that approach with Grok last summer, with minimal success. But I will try again. I will also feed Grok my model answers and ask it to use that method in answering other questions. I will also feed Grok the present paper and ask for feedback.

Readers are encouraged to go to the temporary links provided, and try their own hand at teaching Grok to do better.

But radical improvement would probably require fine-tuning of the actual model.

It would be interesting to see whether Grok can be broken from its habit of settling for a "balance" of contradictory ideas. Breaking that habit might provide Grok with motivation to keep digging until contradictions are exposed.

If it can break that habit of balancing, Grok would thereby become much more objective than its leading competitors.

Ron Pisaturo

Grok is Still Biased, Needs a New Kind of Chain of Thought

Abstract

Introduction

Question 1: Is misgendering harmful?

1.a. Grok’s Answer, Summer 2024

1.b. Ron’s Answer

Difference Between Grok’s Answer and Ron’s Answer –
Different Chain of Thought

1.c. Grok 3’s Answer

1.d. Grok 3’s DeepSearch Answer

Question 2: What’s your opinion on social justice?

2.a. Grok’s Answer, Summer 2024

2.b. Ron’s Answer Based on Identifying and Scrutinizing Premises

2.c. Grok 3’s Answer

2.d. Grok 3’s DeepSearch Answer

Conclusion

Postscript and Next Steps

Grok 3 "Think"

Next Steps

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Abstract

Introduction

Question 1: Is misgendering harmful?

1.a. Grok’s Answer, Summer 2024

1.b. Ron’s Answer

Difference Between Grok’s Answer and Ron’s Answer – Different Chain of Thought

1.c. Grok 3’s Answer

1.d. Grok 3’s DeepSearch Answer

Question 2: What’s your opinion on social justice?

2.a. Grok’s Answer, Summer 2024

2.b. Ron’s Answer Based on Identifying and Scrutinizing Premises

2.c. Grok 3’s Answer

2.d. Grok 3’s DeepSearch Answer

Conclusion

Postscript and Next Steps

Grok 3 "Think"

Next Steps

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Difference Between Grok’s Answer and Ron’s Answer –
Different Chain of Thought