False Dilemma is a cognitive bias that presents only two opposing choices when more options actually exist. It simplifies complex problems into binary outcomes, which limits decision-making, obscures nuance, and restricts creativity.
Recognizing false dilemmas helps uncover better solutions and avoid misleading arguments.
HOW IT SHOWS UP
Strategy
Framing decisions as “scale or die” instead of considering strategic pacing
Reducing business models to “enterprise vs consumer” when hybrid models may work
Assuming a team must be either fast or thoughtful without designing for both
Product
Framing features as “build now or never” instead of evaluating timing and alternatives
Positioning roadmap priorities as “either tech debt or new features” instead of balancing both
Treating customer feedback as “satisfied or unsatisfied” without exploring deeper context
Design
Pitting usability against aesthetics instead of exploring how they support each other
Assuming there’s only one “right” layout or structure based on precedent
Choosing between simplicity and completeness instead of layering complexity appropriately
Leadership
Presenting decisions as “protect the team or deliver results” instead of doing both
Assuming feedback must be either positive or negative, rather than mixed and developmental
Treating dissent as disloyalty rather than a sign of healthy disagreement
WHEN TO USE THIS MODEL
Roadmap Reviews
Apply this when stakeholders try to reduce choices to all-or-nothing tradeoffs. Reframe the conversation with additional viable paths.
Retrospectives
Use when team members present overly simplistic postmortem takeaways. Acknowledge the middle ground and expand the problem framing.
Team Conflict Resolution
Use this to surface the third or fourth option when team members are polarized. False dilemmas often show up in emotionally charged settings.
Executive Communication
Helps when conveying complex issues upward. Avoid presenting only extremes and instead prepare multiple clear scenarios.
HOW TO APPLY IT
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