What is it?
An ad hominem fallacy occurs when someone attacks the character, motive, or other attribute of the person making an argument, rather than addressing the substance of the argument itself. It shifts focus from the content of the argument to the person presenting it.
Examples
Person A: 'The data shows that this policy would reduce costs.'
Person B: 'You only support this because your company would profit from it.'
How to Avoid This
Focus on evaluating the argument based on its merits, evidence, and reasoning, regardless of who is making it. Separate your personal feelings about the individual from your assessment of their argument.
How to Counter This
When someone uses an ad hominem attack against you, calmly point out that their response doesn't address your argument. You might say, 'Whether or not that's true about me doesn't address the evidence I presented.'