Attack the Person

Disciplines > Argument > Fallacies > Attack the Person

Description | Discussion | Example | See also

Description

Attack the person in some way. For example:

Attack their expertise, questioning their qualifications or experience
Criticize their physical appearance or dress
Comment on their inability to make a good argument
Point out their junior status
Attack their values as being contrary to social norms
Interpret a minor error as major
Attach them to discredited others

Example

You are not qualified to make such a statement.

You would say that, wouldn't you.

And who do you think is going to believe you.

Of course you will defend your own department.

You mean you have not considered Wikkin's work? That is a serious omission.

Discussion

Attacking the Person is a form of distraction, forcing them into defense and away from their argument. Most people, when personally attacked are form a fight-or-flight reaction, and will either jump to their own defense or will cognitively flee (and in doing so, will drop any argument they are making).

Attacking others in public frames you as an aggressive person who attacks those who oppose you. Other people there will be less likely to attack you or use strong arguments against you, thus strengthening your power position.

A sub-division: Abusive Ad Hominem is where the person is attacked and discredited. Circumstantial Ad Hominem occurs where an excuse is made for the person which negates their argument due to some special circumstances, such as the role they have.

Classification

Attack, Distraction, Relevance

Also known as

Ad Hominem (against the person), Abusive Ad Hominem, Circumstantial Ad Hominem.