The Devolution of Political Discourse: Pettiness Abounds

?In politics, we used to compare ideologies and how one side of the aisle thought and acted differently from the other side of the aisle. Today, however, ad hominem (fallacy) attacks have become the weapons used to attack the candidate rather than the ideas. These personal attacks, aimed at discrediting opponents by diminishing their character or personal traits, often overshadow substantive debates. Ad hominem refers to attacking the person rather than the ideas!

What Does Ad Hominem Mean?

Ad hominem is a Latin phrase meaning “to the person” and refers to arguments that sidestep the issue at hand and instead of contrasting ideas, these arguments target the person making the argument. Rather than engaging with the substance of an opponent’s viewpoint, ad hominem attacks focus, essentially, on character assassination. In the political arena, opponents work hard to portray each other as untrustworthy, unethical, or unfit for office. These attacks may sway public opinion, but they almost never contribute to any sort of meaningful discourse.

Recognizing Ad Hominem Attacks

Here are some telltale signs through which we can discern if a politician is employing ad hominin attacks:

1. Language: The language used tends to boil down to personal insults (and even insults to the opponents family members), belittling remarks, and derogatory terms often signal an ad hominem attack.
2. Avoiding Substance: The opponent avoids addressing the actual arguments and instead fixates on attacking the candidate personally, and that tactic is likely an ad hominem fallacy.
3. Emotional Reaction: Fad hominem fallacies/attacks can leave an individual feeling defensive or emotional after an encounter or debate. Instead of a rational discussion, the attacker employs an ad hominem attack.

The Ad Hominem Fallacy in Politics

The most common ad hominem fallacy is the personal attack.

1. Dismissal by Character: When someone dismisses an argument by attacking the character or motives of the person making it, they commit an ad hominem fallacy.
2. Avoidance Strategy: Politicians often use personal attacks to sidestep criticism and avoid engaging with substantive issues.
3. Credibility Distraction: By attacking an opponent’s character, they divert attention from the actual argument, making it seem less credible.

Why Are Ad Hominem Attacks So Prevalent?

Ad hominem attacks thrive for several reasons:

1. Effectiveness: They can sway public perception swiftly, leaving opponents on the defensive.
2. Distraction: By focusing on character, attackers divert attention from policy matters.
3. Emotional Appeal: Appeals to emotions, biases, and prejudices resonate with voters.

Moving Beyond The Attacks

Informed citizens must rise above the ad hominem fallacies/attacks. We should expect nothing less from candidates by taking these actions:

1. Demand Substance: Refuse to be swayed by character smears and insist on substantive discussions.
2. Fact-Check: Evaluate arguments based on the merit of the argument, not the personal attacks levied by one side or the other.
3. Hold Leaders Accountable: Encourage politicians to address the actual issues directly and responsibly rather than resorting to these personal/ad hominem attacks.

In the grand theater of politics, let us elevate discourse beyond personal vendettas. By focusing on ideas, policies, and the greater good, we can reclaim reason and elevate our democracy.