Definition

Noun: * An unsupported dogmatic assertion: A statement or claim that is presented as true and authoritative without any proof or evidence, relying solely on the authority of the person who said it.

Usage

This term is used to criticize an argument that is based purely on the speaker's authority rather than on logic, evidence, or reason. It highlights the logical fallacy of appealing to authority without justification.

Examples

• The philosopher dismissed the argument as a mere ipse dixit, lacking any empirical foundation.
• You cannot prove your point by ipse dixit; you must provide supporting data.
• His entire case was built on a series of ipse dixits from the company's founder.

Advanced Usage

• As a rhetorical device: The phrase is often used in academic, legal, or philosophical discourse to point out a flaw in reasoning.
• Historical/Legal context: In Roman law, it referred to a principle stated by a master (like Pythagoras) that disciples were expected to accept without question. This historical usage underscores its meaning as an unquestioned decree.

Variants and Related Words

• Dogma (n): A principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true.
• Dictum (n): A formal pronouncement from an authoritative source; a short statement that expresses a general truth or principle.
• Fallacy (n): A mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound argument.

Synonyms

• Bare assertion
• Unsubstantiated claim
• Dogmatic statement
• Authoritative pronouncement

Idioms and Related Phrases

• "Take it on faith": To believe something without proof or evidence.
  • He offered no reasons, expecting us to accept his conclusion as an ipse dixit and take it on faith.
• "Because I said so": A phrase (often used by parents) that exemplifies an ipse dixit by asserting authority without explanation.
  • The manager's policy was essentially an institutional ipse dixit—a corporate version of "because I said so."

Noun

1. an unsupported dogmatic assertion