Reductio (Noun)
Meaning
(reduction to the absurd) a disproof by showing that the consequences of the proposition are absurd; or a proof of a proposition by showing that its negation leads to a contradiction.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- The philosopher's reductio argument revealed the inherent contradictions in the opponent's stance, leaving their theory without foundation.
- By employing a reductio, the mathematician was able to demonstrate that the conjecture was false, as its negation led to a logical absurdity.
- The politician's reductio argument, while persuasive, was criticized for being overly simplistic and neglecting the complexity of the issue at hand.
- In the formal proof, the reductio was used to show that the original statement was true, as its negation would result in a manifest contradiction.
- The student's reductio attempt fell flat, as it relied on a flawed assumption that led to a contrived and unconvincing conclusion.