Definition:

1. Latin term meaning "against the person."

Insights:

1. The ad hominem fallacy is committed when the argument is ignored and the person making the argument is attacked.
2. The purpose of using the ad hominem fallacy is to divert an audience away from the argument being made, which can be an effective strategy in "winning" the argument, but not disproving the argument.

Principles:

1. When arguing we should respond to the other person's argument, not to the person making the argument.

Definition:

1. When, in responding to an argument, you deliberately distort it so as to weaken it.

Principles:

1. Take the time to understand a person's argument.