A content fallacy that I have seen in countless arguments is the False Dilemma fallacy. In numerous political debates, television broadcasts, movie plot lines, protests, and personal arguments, false dilemma is usually used as a dramatic resolution to a heated multi-sided argument. False Dilemma describes the fallacy where one claims the false use of "or" in an argument to make it seem as if their are no additional options than the ones given, when in fact there might be many.
For example: Either Errol is smart and gets an A or is stupid and gets an F in blogging.
Although, Errol being smart would help towards getting an A and being less of an intellectual might draw him closer to an F, one cannot assume that the subject is black and white. Errol can be smart, but after forgetting to submit his blogs on time could fail the course or could be stupid but still get an A because his "stupidity" could actually just be hidden creativity. Other than that, there are other grades he can get like a B, C, or D and his rate of intelligence doesn't entirely decide which of those he could get. Some factors could be how responsible he is, time management, and internet accessibility. Thus, it would be a fallacy to input "or" between this sentence because it would create a meaningless close-minded argument. It's like if friends fight with each other and yells "Your either with us or against us". But what if your not even friends? Then you can just yell back "Don't give me a false dilemma, I don't even know you" and walk away. At least that argument would be correct.
I really enjoyed reading you post it was funny but informative. You but gave me a great idea for the next time someone gives me a false dilemma lol. Over all you did a great job at explaining the concept; it has helped me to understand the meaning very well. It is hard to believe that many things that are seen daily are based on a false dilemma motion. I guess such setup is useful to persuade people into doing what they want since they are normally giving two options. At least from now on I will further my search for more option when I am in such situation.
ReplyDeleteYour blogs are funny and I enjoy reading each and every one of them. I like how you continue to use this character "Errol" in all your blogs. The explanation behind your example is easily understood. A person cannot be judge simply as being smart or dumb by one faulty move. There are many reasons behind ones action, just like how you explained. Errol could have simply forgotten to submit his blog on time and failed but it does not mean he is not smart. I agree that inserting an "or" for your example would make it a closed-minded argument. There are many reasons behind someones action and too many to conclude to a false dilemma.
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