# A Lack of Options By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2024-10-12 Sometimes, it may seem that one lacks options or that the only options available are bad. When this is the case, people often determine how to pick between “the lesser of two evils” or how to choose the least bad option. An alternative course of action is to figure out how to increase one’s options. When approaching a fork in the road, most people think we should turn left or right. Very few consider, let’s put the car in reverse. One is seldom constrained by the options given. One can be creative and redefine the situation by generating new and better options. Much has been written in these blogs about how we are entering the age of choice. Part of that choice is whether one accepts the given as definitive. False dichotomy is a logical fallacy that exists when a situation is presented as if there are only two choices when, in fact, multiple options exist. Sometimes false dichotomy is presented accidentally. In one’s haste or carelessness, they present two obvious options as if they were the only options available. This is understandable and can be easily rectified through patience and care. Sometimes false dichotomy is presented purposefully. This is when those in charge of a system create the illusion of choice between pre-selected alternatives to which they are largely indifferent. If there is an option they don’t want people to consider, they conveniently leave it off the menu. When confronted with a lack of options, don’t pick between bad alternatives. Make more options. #### Related Items [[Decision-making]] [[Cognitive Biases]] [[Illusions]] [[Choice]] [[Constraints]]