False dichotomies

False dichotomies are also known as the either/or fallacy. It is when a limited number of choices are presented as mutually exclusive when, in reality, more options are available. This type of argument often reduces complex issues to a binary decision.

An example is this statement in response to vaccination calls during the COVID-19 pandemic: “If the COVID vaccines work, why are vaccinated people getting COVID?” This implies that vaccines must either provide complete immunity or be considered ineffective.

How to spot a false dichotomy

• Ask if there are other options. Are there alternatives being ignored?

• Challenge the exclusivity. Do the presented options truly cover all possibilities?

• Consider the context. Does the complexity of the situation suggest that more options are likely to be present?

• Look for exaggeration. Are the two presented options overly extreme?

The pictured headline from this article suggests a binary perspective: either genetically modified (GM) crops are a complete solution to climate change or they are of no value at all. In reality, GM crops may contribute to climate change mitigation as part of a broader strategy that includes various agricultural and technological approaches.