What is False Dilemma/False Dichotomy Fallacy
The False Dilemma (also known as False Dichotomy) Fallacy occurs
when an argument presents two options as the only possibilities, when in fact more options exist.
This fallacy limits the possibilities to two, often extreme, options,
with the intent to force a choice between them, ignoring other viable alternatives.
It's a tactic used in argumentation to corner the opponent into choosing
an undesirable option or to oversimplify complex issues into black-and-white choices.
Everyday Example: In a discussion about career choices, Person
A says, "You either go to college and succeed, or you don't go and end up failing in life."
Here, Person A is presenting a false dilemma by suggesting that success is only achievable through
college education and that not attending college inevitably leads to failure. This ignores other
paths to success, like vocational training, entrepreneurship, or self-taught skills.