A CONTRARIO

(L. “from the contrary [of the accepted conclusion]”): a rhetorical method of arguing from an accepted conclusion to the rejection of its contrary. Grecian in his Decretum had employed this rhetorical method. E.g., only clerics have the power of the governance in the church. The emperor is not a cleric. Therefore, emperor cannot depose a bishop even of his own territory since this requires the exercise of power of governance in the church.