Ad Hominem Argument

by Craig Shrives

What Is an Ad Hominem Argument?

An ad hominem argument, also known as a personal attack or ad hominem, is a logical fallacy in which someone attacks or criticizes the person making an argument instead of addressing the merits of the argument itself. It involves attacking the character, background, or personal traits of the individual rather than engaging with the substance of their argument.

So, an ad hominem argument occurs when someone dismisses or discredits an argument by attacking the person presenting it, rather than providing counterarguments or addressing the logic and evidence supporting the argument. Instead of addressing the actual claims or ideas put forth, the focus is shifted to the person making the argument.

Here is a quick example: The ad hominem fallacy is a diversionary tactic that seeks to undermine the credibility or authority of the person making the argument rather than engaging with the argument itself. It is important to recognize that attacking someone personally does not address the validity of their argument or provide a substantive response.

To avoid falling for the ad hominem fallacy, it is crucial to focus on the content of the argument and evaluate it based on its logical coherence, evidence, and reasoning. Engaging in personal attacks does not contribute to a meaningful discussion or the evaluation of ideas on their own merits.

Examples of Ad Hominem Arguments

There are many different types of ad hominem argument, but they all share the same idea: they're all an attack on the person and not an attack on the facts of the claim. Here are some examples:

• You're fat and ugly; therefore, your claim is wrong.
• You're not an expert in this subject; therefore, your claim is wrong.
• It's in your interest to think that; therefore, your claim is wrong.
• That's not what you said last week; therefore, your claim is wrong.
• You're a proven liar; therefore, your claim is wrong.
• You're a lower rank than me; therefore, your claim is wrong.

These arguments are all errors in reasoning. A person's looks, expertise, motivation, beliefs, actions, and rank are not, in themselves, evidence that their argument is invalid.

A common form of ad hominem argument is countering a claim based on who the claimant is. (This is often called the "shut up" fallacy.) This idea is well captured by military's version of the game "paper, scissors, rock," which is called "paper, scissors, rank badge," which is often used as a decision-making tool. In the military version, the highest rank badge trumps everything! Of course, ad hominem arguments are not always wrong. There's another side to them. If someone is a known liar, there's a greater chance he's lying again. If someone is set make money if his claim is true, you should be more suspicious. Therefore, you shouldn't fully attack a person's claim based on their characteristics or beliefs, but you must factor them in. You will do this naturally so don't expend too many calories trying to strike the right balance.

A Practical Application for Understanding the Term "Ad Hominem Argument"

Put 'em back in their box

Knowing about ad hominem arguments is far more useful when you're on the receiving end of the attack. Most people are programmed to attack the presenter of the argument rather than the argument itself. (It's far easier for a start.) Attacks with words like these are pretty common:

• You don't have the experience.
• What do you know about this subject anyway?
• Well, you would say that, wouldn't you? (i.e., it's in your interest).

You can counter them with words like this:

"Your attack on me doesn't change what I'm saying."
(If you don't want to come across as snotty.)

"Please stick to the point. Your ad hominem attack on me is fallacious reasoning and only serves to cloud the issue."
(If you want to put your attacker back in his box and you don't mind coming across as snotty.)

Critical Thinking Test

Are you good at spotting the biases, fallacies, and other cognitive effects? Can you spot when statistics have been manipulated? Can you read body language? Well, let's see! Show Instructions

See Also