An ad hominem attack is an attack on the character of the target, who tends to feel the necessity to defend himself or herself from the accusation of being hypocritical. Walton has noted that it is so powerful an argument that it is employed in many political debates.

What is an example of an ad hominem attack?

A classic example of ad hominem fallacy is given below: A: “All murderers are criminals, but a thief isn't a murderer, and so can't be a criminal.” B: “Well, you're a thief and a criminal, so there goes your argument.”

What does an ad hominem argument attack?

(Attacking the person): This fallacy occurs when, instead of addressing someone's argument or position, you irrelevantly attack the person or some aspect of the person who is making the argument.