Statement: "Either we cut the budget or the project fails." This reasoning may be flawed because it
- A. presents a false dilemma, ignoring other possible options such as raising funds
- B. uses emotional language
- C. appeals to authority
- D. repeats itself
Explanation
A false dilemma presents two alternatives as though they were the only ones available, when in reality further options exist, such as extra funding, a revised timeline or a reduced scope. Recognising the unstated third possibility is the standard response. The flaw is also called the either or fallacy.
Related questions
Argument: "Students who take extra classes score higher, so extra classes cause higher scores." The main weakness of this argument is that it
Statement: "Every time I wash my car, it rains." This reasoning is flawed because it
Which of the following, if true, would most weaken the argument that a new drug is effective because patients improved after taking it?
Which of the following, if true, would most strengthen the claim that a city's new bus lanes reduced traffic congestion?
Identify the assumption: "We should build a new hospital because the population of the district has doubled."