ELI5 Edition Discord Version Try the Political Version

Black-or-White

The Fallacy

Where two alternative states are presented as the only possibilities, when in fact more possibilities exist.

Why it's wrong

Also known as the false dilemma, this insidious tactic has the appearance of forming a logical argument, but under closer scrutiny it becomes evident that there are more possibilities than the either/or choice that is presented.

Example

The motivational speaker told the crowd, 'You are either a roaring lion taking charge of your life, or you are a frightened mouse destined for failure. There is no in-between.'