Final answer:
An ad hominem attack is when you attack the person instead of addressing the issue. It is a logical fallacy that should be avoided in debates and discussions.
Step-by-step explanation:
An ad hominem attack occurs when you attack the person who disagrees with you instead of addressing the issue at hand. Rather than focusing on the argument or idea being presented, the person engages in name-calling or criticizing the character, appearance, or circumstances of the individual.
For example, instead of providing evidence against someone's position on an energy project, the arguer might call them a traitor or a liar, which does not contribute to the discussion or address the merits of the argument.
Ad hominem attacks are a logical fallacy and should be avoided in constructive debates and discussions.