What does "ipse dixit" signify?

The term "ipse dixit" translates to "he himself said it," which indicates an assertion made based solely on the authority of the person who made it rather than on any supporting evidence or proof. This phrase originates from the Latin legal and philosophical discourse, where it was often used to dismiss claims that lacked substantiation.

In contexts where this term is applicable, it highlights the importance of credible evidence and arguments that stand on their own merit, rather than relying on the credentials or status of the individual presenting the argument. The phrase serves as a reminder that personal assertions alone do not constitute valid arguments in logical reasoning or legal contexts.

The other options, while interesting, do not accurately capture the essence of the phrase. "By the fact itself," "He swears," and "Written law" suggest meanings that do not align with the concept of relying on the authority of one individual’s statement without independent verification. This emphasizes why the correct interpretation is ultimately "he himself said it," reflecting the reliance on authority rather than evidence.