Reductio ad Absurdum
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
To refute a viewpoint, first assume it is true, then through rigorous logical deduction, arrive at an absurd or self-contradictory conclusion, thereby proving the original assumption false. Scaffolding role: extreme extrapolation. Test whether a strategy is feasible by pushing it to its limits. What if the whole company did this? What if it were done forever? If it collapses at the extreme, the logic has a flaw.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
Extreme extrapolation. Test whether a strategy is feasible by pushing it to its limits. What if the whole company did this? What if it were done forever? If it collapses at the extreme, the logic has a flaw.
Anchor fast decisions
Reductio ad absurdum first assumes the opponent's proposition is true, then follows its logic to derive an obviously absurd consequence or one that contradicts known facts, thereby disproving the original proposition. Its power comes from the deductive structure 'if the premise is true, the conclusion must be true,' allowing errors to expose themselves through extreme extrapolation.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/5Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reductio_ad_absurdumverified
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