ACADEMIC CENTERS

The False Dilemma

The false dilemma, also known as either-or, excluded middle, bifurcation, false dichotomy, or black and white thinking is where the writer presents a limited number of options for the reader to choose from when in reality there are more options than that.  The fallacy of the false dilemma is the illegitimate use of the logical or operator

Example:

Either you're for me or against me. (Why can't I remain neutral?)

Strategy: Identify each of the options given and show with an example that there is at least one addtional option.

 

 




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