REDUCTIO AD ABSURBDUM

(Latin) proof of the falsity of a principle by demonstrating that its logical consequence involves an absurdity. Literally, "reduction to absurdity." It is used loosely of taking a n argument or principle to impractical lengths. Example: "The more sleep one has the longer one lives. To sleep all the time ensures the longest possible life." —FEBC - The Org Off and His Resources, Part I Approved Glossary

(Latin) proof of the falsity of a principle by demonstrating that its logical consequence involves an absurdity. Literally, "reduction to absurdity." It is used loosely of taking an argument or principle to impractical lengths. Example "The more sleep one has the longer one lives. To sleep all the time ensures the longest possible life."