Etymology of Logos
The term “logos” originated from ancient Greek, deriving from the verb legein, meaning “to speak” or “to gather.” In Greek philosophy, “logos” referred to the rational principle that governs the universe and provides it proper order and meaning. It includes idea of logic, reason, discourse, and language. The etymology of logos shows its connection to communication and the power of language in shaping human thinking and mental growth.
Meanings of Logos
- Rational Principle: In Greek philosophy, logos represents the rational principle that governs the universe, providing order and coherence to the world.
- Logic and Reason: Logos encompasses the concepts of logic and reason, highlighting the importance of rational thinking and coherent arguments.
- Discourse and Language: Logos is connected to discourse and language, emphasizing the role of effective communication and meaningful expression.
- Understanding and Knowledge: The term logos underscores its association with human understanding and the acquisition of knowledge through logical reasoning and communication.
- Order and Meaning: It contributes to the establishment of order and meaning in the world, serving as a guiding principle for comprehending the complexities of existence.
Logos Through History
| Meaning Type | Definition | Example |
| Philosophy | Rational principle governing the universe | Logos is the divine reason that shapes all creation. |
| Rhetoric | Persuasive appeal based on logic and evidence | The speaker used logos to present a compelling argument. |
| Christianity | Divine Word or Christ as the Word of God | In Christianity, Jesus is often referred to as the logos. |
| Linguistics | The study of language and its structure | Phonology and syntax are branches of linguistic logos. |
| Branding and Design | Symbol or graphic representation of a brand | The company’s logo is instantly recognizable. |
Definition of Logos as a Literary Device/Rhetorical Device
As a literary device, it refers to the use of logical reasoning, evidence, and arguments to persuade an audience. It involves presenting a clear and rational argument that appeals to the audience’s sense of reason and intellect. Logos can be used in various forms of writing, from persuasive essays to speeches, to support a writer’s or speaker’s claims and convince their audience.
Types of Logos
| Type of Logos | Meanings | Example |
| Inductive Reasoning | Uses specific examples to establish a truth | Every cat I have seen has fur, so all cats must have fur. |
| Deductive Reasoning | Applies a general principle to a specific case | All mammals have lungs, and a dog is a mammal, so a dog has lungs. |
| Syllogism | Deductive argument with two true propositions | All men are mortal. Socrates is a man. Therefore, Socrates is mortal. |
| Analogy | Comparison to explain or illustrate a point | Life is like a journey, with its ups and downs. |
| Cause and Effect | Links actions/events to show their outcomes | Smoking cigarettes causes lung cancer. |
| Authority | Appeals to credibility or expertise | According to Dr. Smith, this treatment is the most effective. |
Literary Examples of Logos
“To be or not to be, that is the question.”
In this famous soliloquy, Hamlet uses logos to reason through the decision of whether to take action against his father’s murderer or endure his suffering. He uses deductive reasoning to consider the pros and cons of taking action and reflects on the nature of life and death.
“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”
In this novel, Orwell uses logos to criticize the hypocrisy and corruption of the Soviet government. The statement is a logical contradiction and highlights the flawed reasoning and lack of equality in the government’s policies.
- From Apology by Plato
“The unexamined life is not worth living.”
In this dialogue, Socrates uses logos to argue for the importance of self-reflection and critical thinking. He uses deductive reasoning to demonstrate the value of questioning one’s beliefs and assumptions, and to encourage his listeners to examine their own lives.
“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”
In this dialogue, Socrates uses logos to argue against the arrogance of those who claim to know everything. He uses inductive reasoning to demonstrate that the more one learns, the more one realizes how much they do not know.
Suggested Readings
- Booth, Wayne C., et al. The Craft of Research. 4th ed., University of Chicago Press, 2016.
- Corbett, Edward P. J., and Robert J. Connors. Classical Rhetoric for the Modern Student. 4th ed., Oxford University Press, 1998.
- Kennedy, George A. Classical Rhetoric and Its Christian and Secular Tradition from Ancient to Modern Times. University of North Carolina Press, 1999.
- Lanham, Richard A. Analyzing Prose. 2nd ed., Continuum, 2003.
- Perelman, Chaim, and L. Olbrechts-Tyteca. The New Rhetoric: A Treatise on Argumentation. University of Notre Dame Press, 1969.
- Richards, I. A. The Philosophy of Rhetoric. Oxford University Press, 1936.
- Rosenwasser, David, and Jill Stephen. Writing Analytically. 8th ed., Cengage Learning, 2017.