My Tao - False Alternatives

One of the most deceptive forms of propaganda is the employment of false alternatives. A range of alternatives are presented and thoroughly analysed, making it seem like we are confronted with profound logical thinking. Then a completely reasonable conclusion is presented on basis of the in depth analysis. For those who didn't pay careful attention, the conclusion seems self evident, and the propagandist can proceed with the full support of its audience.

However, on closer analysis, something important was left out. There's an alternative line of reasoning, conveniently ignored by the propagandist, that leads to a very different conclusion.

There are for instance a whole host of economists who will argue at length for the impossibility of a sudden collapse in the dollar. They will site all sorts of reasons why the dollar cannot be replaced. There's simply no alternative. However, such analysis always ignore or belittle the alternative to our current dollar standard, namely a return to a gold standard.

Similarly in politics, there are all sorts of arguments related to the way we lead our lives. Pros and cons related to just about anything imaginable are endlessly debated, be it the exact details of various school activities, or the correct way to wear a face mask. In all of this, freedom is rarely mentioned as an option.

To be successful in life, we have to look through this kind of propaganda, because the best solutions are frequently those never mentioned, or those greatly belittled and passed off as naïve or irresponsible.

By Albrecht Dürer - AGDdr3EHmNGyA at Google Cultural Institute, zoom level maximum, Public Domain, Link