When it’s hard to find a resolution, it can be tempting to search for the middle ground to resolve the conflict. This is often a very bad idea, and it has a name: the false compromise fallacy. By making us abandon the search for a solution, it leads to misleading conclusions and poor decision making at work and personal life.
The birth of a false compromise
A false compromise occurs when a resolution cannot be found between two opposing views, and so the middle ground is accepted as the “best of both worlds” instead.
- The false compromise fallacy is sometimes referred to as “bothsiderism”.
- Just because someone presents an argument, it does not mean it is as valid as another point of view.
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The danger of false compromises
When the topic being discussed and potential outcome are of great importance, a false compromise could cause harm
- A leaning towards compromise may cause you to abandon your rational beliefs
- If both sides will be left dissatisfied by a compromise then it is better to resist the temptation
- False compromises can also prevent a discussion from moving forward
How to manage false compromises
Consider if consensus is needed
- Evaluate the strength of evidence
- Be open to extreme decisions
- If you know the evidence and likely outcome, trying to meet in the middle doesn’t make sense
- The false compromise fallacy can lead to misleading conclusions, poor decision-making and dissatisfaction
