How Black-and-White Thinking Hinders Your Problem Solving (Overcoming the False Dilemma Fallacy)

The False Dilemma (sometimes called False Dichotomy) Fallacy limits thinking by forcing a choice between only two options...when in reality, more possibilities exist. It simplifies complex situations into black-and-white terms, blocking creative solutions. This fallacy leads people to believe there are only two possible answers, locations, solutions, or meanings, often missing better alternatives hidden in plain sight. Recognizing false dilemmas helps you think more flexibly, avoid mental traps, expand your sense of possibilities, and unlock new options.