A dilemma is a problem with two possible solutions, which causes the person to doubt the best decision.
In Greek is where we can say that the etymological origin of the term dilemma is found, which we will analyze in depth below. And it is made up of two words from that language: “dis”, which can be translated as “two”, and “lemma”, which is equivalent to “premise or theme”.
A dilemma, therefore, is an argument that is made up of two contrary and disjunctive propositions : by granting or denying any of these two propositions, what was wanted to be proven is demonstrated.
The dilemma as entertainment
Within the realm of games, dilemmas are also established as entertainment . One of the best known is the so-called prisoner's dilemma , created by Melvin Dresher and Merrill M. Flood in the 1950s.
With it, we propose what two prisoners in any prison will do when faced with a proposal: collaborate to be able to minimize the problems they have in prison or betray each other so that at least one of them can achieve freedom.
A problem with more than one solution
In everyday language, a dilemma is understood as a problem that can be resolved through two solutions but neither of the two is completely acceptable or, on the contrary, both are equally acceptable. In other words, when choosing one of the options, the person is not completely satisfied.
What a dilemma does is put an individual in a situation of doubt , debating between two alternatives. The dilemma can be generated by various issues: professional, moral, etc. It is common for the person to debate between a “correct” option (what they think they should do) and a “sentimental” option (what they feel they want to do).
A dilemma can cause worry or uncertainty.
Dilemmas in everyday life
The emergence of dilemmas in everyday life is very frequent. Suppose that the editor of a newspaper is ordered by his boss to write an article in favor of a sponsor of the newspaper who is being investigated for corruption . The journalist, however, had access to evidence that demonstrates the sponsor's guilt.
The editor, therefore, faces a dilemma: obey his boss to keep his job, even lying to readers; or write a note with the truth about the case, with the risk of losing your job.
A Michael Mann film
Within the world of cinema there are various productions that choose to use the word in question in their titles. Thus, for example, we find the feature film “The Dilemma” , which was released in 1999 by director Michael Mann.
Al Pacino and Russell Crowe are the protagonists of this film that revolves around the figure of a scientist who has managed to discover what substance tobacco companies put in cigarettes to make them addictive. What he will do is make it public and that will be his professional end. However, a television producer will give him a chance on the small screen so he can tell everything in detail.