Question

Match each logical fallacy to its correct definition. Which term matches the definition: an attack on or criticism of someone's character rather than the logic or content of the argument?

1) ad hominem
2) ad populum
3) circular reasoning
4) red herring
5) slippery slope

Answer 1

The term that fits the definition of criticizing someone's character over their argument is 'ad hominem.' This fallacy involves personal attacks rather than examining the argument's content.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term that matches the definition an attack on or criticism of someone's character rather than the logic or content of the argument is ad hominem. The ad hominem fallacy is a logical mistake wherein the arguer attacks the individual personally instead of addressing the central issues or the content of the argument. For example, dismissing someone's argument by stating that they are too young to understand the complexities of the issue is an ad hominem attack because it targets the person's age rather than the argument itself.