Endoxon

In ancient Greek philosophy, endoxa (ἔνδοξα) are opinions or beliefs that are widely held or held by authorities. The singular form is endoxon (ἔνδοξον). Aristotle frequently uses endoxa in his philosophical method, particularly in his ethical and dialectical investigations.

Aristotle viewed endoxa as a valuable starting point for inquiry. He considered them to be more reliable than individual opinions or purely speculative arguments. By examining and critically evaluating commonly held beliefs, one could identify potential truths or at least refine one's understanding of complex issues.

The importance of endoxa lies in their connection to practical wisdom and the shared understanding of a community. They represent a kind of collective intelligence accumulated over time. However, Aristotle also recognized that endoxa could be flawed or incomplete, and therefore, required careful scrutiny. His method involved identifying potential contradictions or inconsistencies within endoxa, leading to a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the subject matter.

The role of endoxa is especially prominent in Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics, where he seeks to determine the nature of the good life. He begins by considering various popular opinions about happiness, such as wealth, honor, and pleasure, before offering his own account. Similarly, in his Topics, Aristotle discusses the use of endoxa in dialectical arguments, where the goal is to persuade others by appealing to commonly held beliefs.

In summary, endoxa are reputable opinions used by Aristotle as a basis for philosophical inquiry. Their importance lies in their connection to communal understanding, though they still require critical evaluation.