Argumentum ad Hominem

From StoneHome

Definition

Argumentum ad Hominem, literally translated "argument against the person," is the fallacy of resolution against character assasination. Rather than to argue the point, one might simply attack the image of the person making the point. Some people suggest that this also encompasses attacks against the character of the source of information used in argument. This sort of fallacy is especially common in political debate of late, unfortunately.

A subtler form of this fallacy is common in the practice of pigeonholing people's stance on an issue due to their occupation, religion or upbringing. Common examples include an arguer dismissing sound points made by their opponent for such reasons, especially when the opponent's vocation or advocation have strong inclinations; frequently religious leaders and medical practicioners have sound arguments dismissed because they're suggested to have required views given their jobs, and that this somehow obviates the claims made.

It is important to understand that insults and slander are not ad hominem argument. Ad Hominem isn't the process of character assasination itself, but rather drawing or discarding conclusions based upon the character assasination's effect on the image of the opponent, their information or resources.

Example

Activist 

This plan for a dam is irresponsible. It will create new tributaries, which threaten to remove the riffraff and therefore scrub the gravel supporting the bridge's casons. This dam threatens the safety of the bridge.

Politician 

Yes, but you're an environmentalist, so you're just opposed to new development. We're going ahead with the dam.