In classical logic, the false dichotomy, or false dilemma, is defined as an argument where only two choices are presented yet more exist, or a spectrum of possible choices exists between two extremes. False dilemmas are usually characterized by “either this or that” language but can also be characterized by the omission of choices. 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.

President Trump has an opportunity both to defeat the novel coronavirus and to gain advantage for the United States in its struggle with China. The competition between the U.S. and China for global influence predates both the coronavirus crisis and the Trump administration. It flared earlier in this presidency during trade negotiations. 

Strategika Issue 63 is now available online. Strategika is an online journal that analyzes ongoing issues of national security in light of conflicts of the past—the efforts of the Military History Working Group of historians, analysts, and military personnel focusing on military history and contemporary conflict.

News organizations have been diligent in posting tallies of coronavirus deaths. Perhaps they will also consider updating their graphics to track U.S. suicides and deaths by overdose, along with the deaths of businesses which are bound to drive increases in these awful results of despair. News outfits might also try to inform consumers on how much we are spending in an attempt to prevent deaths from coronavirus compared to other efforts to reduce mortality.