Definition

Noun: 1. An unsupported dogmatic assertion: The making of a statement or claim that is presented as true and authoritative without providing any evidence, proof, or logical reasoning to support it. It relies solely on the speaker's authority or insistence.

Usage

Ipsedixitism is a formal and critical term used to describe and criticize a rhetorical fallacy. It highlights when an argument is based purely on an authoritative decree ("because I said so") rather than on substantiated facts or sound logic. - It is often used in academic, philosophical, or political discourse to point out flawed reasoning. - The word carries a negative connotation, implying intellectual laziness or authoritarianism in argumentation.

Examples

• The debate was frustrating due to the candidate's reliance on ipsedixitism; every challenge was met with a repetition of the initial claim rather than with data.
• In his essay, the philosopher warned against the ipsedixitism found in certain ideological doctrines that demand belief without question.
• Scientific progress is hindered by ipsedixitism, as it rejects the necessary process of evidence and peer review.

Advanced Usage

• The term originates from the Latin phrase , meaning "he himself said it," a phrase associated with the disciples of Pythagoras who would use it to invoke their master's authority as the sole proof for a statement.
• It is closely related to the logical fallacy known as "appeal to authority," but specifically denotes an argument where the authority itself is the only support offered.

Variants and Related Words

• Ipse dixit (Latin phrase, noun): The source of the term, meaning an unproven assertion by an individual. Often used similarly in English.
  • His argument was merely an ipse dixit from the company's founder.
• Dogmatism (noun): The tendency to lay down principles as undeniably true.
• Dictum (noun): A formal pronouncement from an authoritative source.

Synonyms

• Dogmatic assertion
• Unsubstantiated claim
• Authoritarian decree
• Bare assertion

Antonyms

• Evidence-based argument
• Substantiated claim
• Reasoned conclusion
• Verified statement

Related Idioms/Phrases

• "Because I said so": A common, everyday expression that encapsulates the essence of ipsedixitism, often used by parents or figures of authority to end discussion.
• "Take it on faith": To accept something without evidence, which, in a non-religious argument, can be a form of ipsedixitism.

Noun

1. an unsupported dogmatic assertion