The short answer is yes, but it is a logical fallacy—specifically, the cherry-picking fallacy. Yet, it’s often how we make decisions. It’s understandable why many choose to vote based on a single issue—like candidate character, the economy, or climate change. It’s a straightforward, pragmatic approach: you identify what’s most important to you and select the candidate who best aligns with that priority. While it might feel logical, it’s important to understand that this approach can be flawed.
Cherry-picking is a common tendency in decision-making. It’s why a salesperson usually focuses on a specific feature and why they try to figure out what you’re looking for. The problem? If you’re unaware, cherry-picking might cause you to overlook other, or even contradictory, information.
On the plus side, cherry-picking simplifies a complex process and helps you focus on what matters most to you. However, the downside is that it can lead to a narrow perspective, making you vulnerable to manipulation or missing important context. By ignoring broader aspects, you may unknowingly embrace something that contradicts your overall values or interests. Recognizing this limitation enables a more balanced and informed approach. For example, you might vote for a candidate because they support strong immigration policies, but this might lead you to ignore other aspects of their platform, like their economic policies that favor billionaires or their lack of integrity. Being aware doesn’t mean you abandon your focus, but it does open up the opportunity to expand your view.
Beyond politics, the cherry-picking fallacy shows up everywhere! It’s a common practical shortcut. Just be aware of it and recognize when it’s useful and when it’s limiting. If your chosen point is truly the most important, go for it. However, understanding this can expand your critical thinking abilities, enriching your perspective—especially over time.
