Lesson 2: False Dilemma

Spot the Faulty Logic #

A student receives his math work back and has gotten almost all the questions wrong. He says to his mom, “Ugh, I did so badly! I’m just terrible at math.”

Discussion: Talk with your teacher about this example. What seems wrong with his response?

How/Why It’s Often Used #

False dilemmas can appear in a variety of use cases. People often use this fallacy to make decisions seem urgent or simple, or to pressure others into choosing the option they prefer. It’s used unintentionally when someone hasn’t thought carefully about all the possibilities. You might encounter it in social settings when others want to create a “with us or against us” situation. You might even hear it in motivational speeches when someone is being overly simplistic in order to push toward a goal. Framing an argument in this way can be used to manipulate others into beliefs or actions they would not have chosen if they had been aware of other options.

False Dilemma in Action #

Did you spot the faulty logic? #

The student frames his relationship with math as if there’s only two options. Because he did poorly, he must be terrible at math. This ignores the reality of so many other possible options though. He can be good at math but didn’t study enough this time, or perhaps he just had a bad day, or maybe he’s good at other parts of math but struggles with this specific topic.

Second Example #

A coach is talking to his athletes before a big tournament. He’s trying to get them pumped up and ready to give it their all. Pushing for intensity, he says, “If you aren’t first, you’re last.”

The Flaw #

This bad thinking missing the middle entirely. Coming in 2nd, 3rd, or even beating your own personal best are all distinct achievements. Being 1st place is certainly not the only form of success to be had. The coach’s phrase erases all measure of success but one.