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Simple English definitions for legal terms
reductio ad absurdum
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A quick definition of reductio ad absurdum:
Term: REDUCTIO AD ABSURDUM
Definition: Reductio ad absurdum is a way of proving that an argument is wrong by showing that it leads to a silly or ridiculous conclusion. It's like saying, "If we follow this argument, we would have to believe something that is clearly untrue or ridiculous." This helps us to see that the argument is flawed and cannot be trusted.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Reductio ad absurdum is a Latin term that means "reduction to the absurd." It is a logical method of disproving an argument by showing that it leads to a ridiculous or absurd conclusion.
Example: Let's say someone argues that all cats are black. To disprove this argument using reductio ad absurdum, we can show that it leads to an absurd conclusion. If all cats are black, then a white cat cannot exist. However, we know that white cats do exist, so the argument that all cats are black is false.
Another example: Someone argues that the earth is flat. To disprove this argument using reductio ad absurdum, we can show that it leads to an absurd conclusion. If the earth is flat, then people on opposite sides of the earth would be able to see each other. However, we know that this is not possible, so the argument that the earth is flat is false.
These examples illustrate how reductio ad absurdum can be used to disprove an argument by showing that it leads to a conclusion that is clearly false or absurd.