dilemma. 'The chief dilemma facing Mr Greenspan is whether or not to raise interest rates' {Sunday Times}. Dilemma does not mean just any difficulty or predicament. Strictly speaking, it applies only when someone is faced with two courses of action, both unsatisfactory. Fowler accepted its extension to contexts involving more than two alternatives, but even then the number of alternatives should be definite and the consequences of each unappealing.
The dilemma that Mr. Greenspan encounters revolves around the tough decision of whether to increase interest rates or not. In this context, a dilemma isn't simply a challenging situation; it specifically refers to a scenario where one is faced with two unsatisfactory choices. This definition emphasizes the complexity and weight of his decision, as both options may lead to unfavorable outcomes for the economy.
Fowler's perspective on dilemmas allows for situations with multiple alternatives, yet they must remain clearly defined, along with their undesirable consequences. This implies that Mr. Greenspan's decision-making involves navigating through precarious economic conditions where the implications of his choices are potentially damaging, highlighting the critical nature of his role in managing economic stability.
