Oversimplification

This is when issues or arguments are made to appear simpler by ignoring any complexities involved. Sometimes oversimplification occurs because people making arguments are simply not aware of the related complexities.

How to spot an oversimplification

• Is there missing context? Does the argument ignore critical details or broader contexts that make the issue more complex?

• Look for red flag phrases like “the only reason”, “all you need to do” or “if we just”.

• Is the argument or solution particularly simplistic? Are unintended consequences around the proposed argument or solution ignored?

• If this solution is so simple, why has it not been proposed or done before? Look for evidence of the solution having been tried. What were the results?

• Interrogate the source. Is the person or organisation suggesting a solution or argument an expert in the area under discussion?

When you see any single-fix solution for climate change, you are seeing oversimplification in action. No single solution like solar power, electric vehicles or a geoengineering method will alone be a solution for this complex problem. Climate change solutions will involve many different technologies, tools and changes in human behaviour.

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