Actually, simulating a hypothetical wise, but not necessarily superhuman counselor, can be better than simulating myself. I have my confusions and my weaknesses, and it can be hard to generated a model of someone who exactly like myself but without them.
On the other hand, since my hypothetical personal hero is fictional (although maybe based on someone real or fictional that I admire), it is easier to generate a model of this wise, calm and collected adviser.
I think the real trick here is that any “simulated person” in your mind has cognitive “permission” to take the Outside View on you. So it will damn well tell you, “You’re stressed, you’re tired, you’re not thinking correctly” instead of just endorsing everything you think.
Actually, simulating a hypothetical wise, but not necessarily superhuman counselor, can be better than simulating myself. I have my confusions and my weaknesses, and it can be hard to generated a model of someone who exactly like myself but without them.
On the other hand, since my hypothetical personal hero is fictional (although maybe based on someone real or fictional that I admire), it is easier to generate a model of this wise, calm and collected adviser.
I think the real trick here is that any “simulated person” in your mind has cognitive “permission” to take the Outside View on you. So it will damn well tell you, “You’re stressed, you’re tired, you’re not thinking correctly” instead of just endorsing everything you think.