Theinformal fallacy ofdenying the correlative is an attempt made at introducing alternatives where there are none. It is the opposite of thefalse dilemma, which is denying other alternatives. Its logical form isEither X or not X,therefore Y.
For example:
In the context of a multiple choice question, the best answer must be chosen from the available alternatives. However, in determining whether this fallacy is committed, a close look at the context is required. The essence of denying the correlative is introducing an alternative into a context that logically admits none, but this itself could be taken as an indication that the context is irrational. Even if there are no implicit alternatives, (such as theright to remain silent), assumptions may need to be questioned and clarified or implications may require a disclaimer.
