Aristotle on dialectic and definition in scientific inquiry

By framing Aristotle’s dialectic in the broader context of scientific inquiry and demonstration, this paper is aimed at showing what use “reputable opinions” can be for grasping principles sciences, as declared Topics I.2. It argues that such a cannot imply ‒ any stage replacement logic intrinsic goals demonstration by those proper to dialectic. However, it also defends substantive (but still modest) contribution beyond its well-attested methodological role discarding contradictory opinions (possible though not germane I.2) application proving principle non-contradiction means refutation. This consists providing preliminary accounts facts order have started, required Posterior Analytics II.8. To better appreciate how proposed location pre-demonstrative operational, finally examines Physics IV.1-5.