false dichotomy

A "false dichotomy" is a common logical fallacy used in arguments to oversimplify complex issues by presenting only two options when more exist.

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Definition

(technical, academic)A logical fallacy that presents only two options as the only possibilities, ignoring other viable alternatives.

The argument that you must be either for or against the policy is a false dichotomy, as there are many nuanced positions one could take.

(academic)A rhetorical device that limits a range of possibilities to just two choices, creating a misleading binary.

Politicians often use false dichotomies to simplify complex issues for their audiences.

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "false dichotomy":