False Dichotomy and False Equivalence

Some of the most effective fallacies work by distorting the range of options available or by misrepresenting how different things compare. The false dichotomy presents only two options when more exist, whilst false equivalence treats significantly different things as though they are the same. Both appear frequently in the kinds of opinion pieces and policy arguments you will encounter on the LNAT.

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False Dichotomy (False Dilemma)

A false dichotomy is committed when an argument presents only two options as though they are the only possibilities, when in fact there are other viable alternatives.

Structure

Step	What happens
1. Two options presented	"Either we do X or we do Y"
2. One option rejected	"Y would be unacceptable because..."
3. Conclusion	"Therefore we must do X"
Hidden reality	Options Z, W, and V also exist but are ignored

Example

"We must either maintain strict grammar school selection or accept that all children will receive an identical, one-size-fits-all education. Since one-size-fits-all education fails to meet the needs of gifted children, grammar schools are essential."