"Th
e Devil's Advocate" – An Exploration into the Origins of the Phrase and Its Modern Usage "The Devil's Advocate" is a phrase that has become commonplace in our modern vernacular, but its origins and historical usage may surprise you. In this article, we will delve into the meaning and history of this intriguing phrase, as well as examine how it has evolved into its current usage. The phrase "The Devil's Advocate" originally referred to a specific role within the Catholic Church's process of canonization. The office of the Devil's Advocate was established in the 16th century as part of the Congregation of Rites, with the purpose of providing a counterargument against the canonization of a candidate for sainthood. Essentially, the Devil's Advocate was responsible for finding reasons why a person should not be considered a saint, rather than arguing their case for sainthood. This was seen as an essential step in the canonization process, as it helped to ensure that only truly deserving individuals were recognized as saints. Over time, the phrase "The Devil's Advocate" came to be used more broadly to refer to anyone who adopts a contrary position in a debate or argument. This usage can be seen in literature and drama from the mid-20th century onwards, where characters are often described as playing the Devil's Advocate to challenge the status quo or the beliefs of other characters. In this context, the phrase suggests that the person in question is deliberately being difficult or contentious, rather than arguing in good faith. Today, "The Devil's Advocate" is a phrase that is often used in everyday conversation to describe anyone who takes a contrary position, regardless of their motivations or intent. It has become a shorthand for anyone who is seen as being intentionally difficult or argumentative, regardless of whether they are engaging in good-faith debate or simply being stubborn. One interesting aspect of the modern usage of "The Devil's Advocate" is how it has come to be associated with lawyers and legal proceedings. This is likely due to the role that lawyers often play in taking on challenging cases and defending unpopular clients. In this context, calling someone a Devil's Advocate can be seen as both an insult and a compliment, suggesting that they are skilled at arguing a difficult case, but also that they may be ethically compromised. Despite its colorful history and modern usage, "The Devil's Advocate" remains a phrase that is often misunderstood and misused. While it can be a useful tool for promoting discussion and debate, it is important to remember that the original purpose of the Devil's Advocate was not to simply be contrarian, but to ensure that the canonization process was thorough and thoughtful. By keeping this in mind, we can better appreciate the meaning and value of this intriguing phrase.