False dilemma

A false dilemma, also known as a false dichotomy or the fallacy of bifurcation, is a logical fallacy that presents a situation as having only two exclusive options, when in fact there are additional viable alternatives. The error lies not in the logical form of the argument, but in the false premise that limits the available choices.

In its simplest form, a false dilemma reduces the situation to two opposing choices: either A or B is true. If A is true, B must be false, and vice versa. This oversimplification excludes other possible options (e.g., C), misleading the audience into thinking that they must choose between the limited options presented.

The fallacy distracts from the existence of other alternatives by focusing on the presented choice, often leading to a biased or incomplete decision.

Examples:

• "Either you are with me or against me."
• "We have to spend less on hospitals, otherwise we won't be able to afford education improvements."

This fallacy can involve more than two options but typically emphasizes a limited set to manipulate the decision-making process.