GRE General TestAnalytical WritingMedium
A city council is debating whether to fund a new public art initiative. A council member argues, 'We must either invest in vital public services like road repair and sanitation, or we can waste taxpayer money on frivolous public art. There is no middle ground; our budget is limited, and we must prioritize.' Which of the following best describes the logical fallacy committed by the council member?
- AFalse Dichotomy
- BAppeal to Authority
- CSlippery Slope
- DAd Hominem
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. False Dichotomy
The council member presents only two extreme options: vital services OR frivolous art, implying no other possibilities exist. This is a false dichotomy (or false dilemma), which inaccurately limits the available choices.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Appeal to Authority relies on an expert's opinion instead of evidence.
- C. Slippery Slope argues that one action will inevitably lead to a series of negative consequences.
- D. Ad Hominem attacks the person, not the argument.
False Dichotomy
A false dichotomy (or false dilemma) is a logical fallacy that presents only two options or sides when, in reality, there are more possibilities.
- Also known as 'black-or-white' fallacy.
- Limits choices to two extremes.
- Ignores alternative solutions or middle ground.
Memory trick: Don't fall for flaws, think clearly through laws.