Logical fallacy #6: The false dilemma

“It’s my way or the highway!” 

 

Definition: In false dichotomy, the arguer sets up the situation so it looks like there are only two choices. The arguer then eliminates one of the choices, so it seems that we are left with only one option: the one the arguer wanted us to pick in the first place. But often there are really many different options, not just two—and if we thought about them all, we might not be so quick to pick the one the arguer recommends.

Examples: 

A. Pennélope writes with the following example:

 "You are either with us or against us!" from Pirates of the Caribbean

She continues, The argument provides the audience only two choices in their decision making process, in this case, join my battle or be my enemy. Person A forces and/or manipulates person B into joining his fight by only providing these two choices, although in reality, there are more than these two. For example, one can choose to be neutral and not engage in either party. 

That's correct!

B. “The DMN building on campus is in bad shape. Either we tear it down and put up a new building, or we continue to risk students’ safety. Obviously we shouldn’t risk anyone’s safety, so we must tear the building down.” The argument neglects to mention the possibility that we might repair the building or find some way to protect students from the risks in question—for example, if only a few rooms are in bad shape, perhaps we shouldn’t hold classes in those rooms.

 

Tip: Examine your own arguments: if you’re saying that we have to choose between just two options, is that really so? Or are there other alternatives you haven’t mentioned? If there are other alternatives, don’t just ignore them—explain why they, too, should be ruled out. Although there’s no formal name for it, assuming that there are only three options, four options, etc. when really there are more is similar to false dichotomy and should also be avoided.

 

(Credit: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)