False Dilemma: This or That

The false dilemma is a rhetorical fallacy often defined under logos. This fallacy is a common one used in everyday life. False dilemma is giving only two options when there are other choices available, but not mentioned. This fallacy is used to limit a reader’s choices and coerce them into making the choice the author wants. 

Typically an author will present the two choices in which one is clearly better then the other. An example of this that is commonly used in religion is the sin or righteousness. However, our choices are not so black and white. Another common use of the false dilemma fallacy is present two equally good (or bad) choices. I trick myself with this method each morning when deciding what to wear. I have to pick two clothing options to narrow down my closet. Otherwise I will spend all morning switching outfits. I also use this fallacy when debating on doing homework or watching Netflix. I could do my homework. I could watch Netflix. Alternatively, I could nap; I could eat ice cream; I could go out and socialize. I find that this is a really effective rhetorical device on me. My mom has also discovered this fact. Many nights she will give me choices between doing the dishes or picking up my sister from her activity. She also uses this to let us choose our punishments; no friends or no phone. Neither option is better than the other. These are not my only two options but the manner in which my mother presents them, make it seem as though they are. 

Authors (and parents)  know how we think. We are undecided when given so many choices. By paring in down to only two choices, we quickly can make a decision. Authors can then guide the thought process in the direction they wish. The false dilemma fallacy is an easy one to fall victim to. As a critical reader, we need to look out for this fallacy. There are several key characteristics of this fallacy that can make it easy to spot. One is the use of ‘or’. This or that. Cream or sugar. Another is special phrases such as would you rather…. This phrase is especially effective on the unsuspecting reader. A third characteristic is the life or death choice. When this fallacy is used, often there seems to be a black and white choice. Social issue arguers often rely on this. Protecting babies or murdering babies. Emotionally charged language is critical in these choices. The perhaps the biggest indicator of the false dilemma fallacy is the taking away choices. When analyzing an argument think beyond what the author says the two directions are. What is my personal opinion on this subject? Authors use rhetorical fallacies like false dilemma because they are effective at forcing readers to think the way an author wishes. This fallacy is especially common in everyday life. Through critical analysis and observation we will not fall victim to this fallacy.