The false compromise fallacy: why the middle ground is not always the best

The false compromise fallacy: why the middle ground is not always the best

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.

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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

How to manage false compromises

Consider if consensus is needed

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