Explanation
Doxa is neither mere error nor established knowledge. It names the movable intermediate space in which people adopt, share, contest, and revise judgments through reasons. Rhetoric operates in this space because convictions remain effective yet revisable.
Example
Everyone regards the guided route as easier to understand, so it is initially treated as the better solution.
Counterexample
The route has four stations. This is a verifiable statement, not a doxa about its value.
Distinction
Distinguish it from episteme: doxa remains an opinion that can be supported and revised. Distinguish it from endoxa: not every individual doxa is generally or reputably accepted.
Effect on thought and perception
Reveals where a judgment rests on assent and probability rather than proof, opening it to comparison and revision.
Resonance
A shared opinion carries widely yet remains audibly mutable once another voice introduces reasons.
Etymology
Greek doxa · opinion, belief, expectation
Provenance
Oxford glossary → HWRh cross-check where available → movement-of-thought analysis → ATLAS 235
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Doxa“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-OXD-0001. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-OXD-0001The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.