False dilemma facts for kids
A false dilemma is a trick in thinking. It makes you believe there are only two choices. But really, there are many more options. It's also called the either-or fallacy or the black-or-white fallacy. It's like saying something is either black or white, when it could be gray, blue, or any other color!
For example, imagine someone says an apple must be green or red. This is a false dilemma. Most apples are red or green. But some apples are yellow, or even a mix of colors! The idea that there are only two choices is wrong.
Contents
What is a False Choice?
A false choice can sometimes hide a plan. Someone might use it to stop people from agreeing. They want you to pick one of their two choices. This stops you from thinking of other ideas.
Famous Examples of False Dilemmas
A famous example comes from Eldridge Cleaver. He was a writer and activist. He once said: "You're either part of the solution or part of the problem." This statement gives only two options. It doesn't allow for other ways to be involved. Maybe someone is trying to understand the problem. Or maybe they are just learning about it.
False dilemmas can also be used for fun. The TV host Stephen Colbert used them on his show. He would ask guests funny questions. For example, he once asked: "George Bush... great president or the greatest president?" This question only gave two choices. Both choices were positive. It made people laugh because it ignored other possibilities.
More to Explore
- FallacyFiles.org, The Black-or-White Fallacy entry in The Fallacy Files
Images for kids
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Young America's dilemma: Shall I be wise and great, or rich and powerful? (poster from 1901)
See also
In Spanish: Falso dilema para niños
