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What is it?
This fallacy suggests that a person's argument is invalid because of their situation, such as their job, nationality, or financial status. It implies that their circumstances dictate their position, so the position must be biased and therefore wrong.
Examples
"Of course the CEO supports lower corporate taxes; it's in her financial interest."
"You're a student, so you don't have any real-world experience to talk about this issue."
How to Avoid This
Judge an argument on its own merits, not on the circumstances of the person making it. A person's situation might give them a particular perspective, but it doesn't automatically invalidate their argument.
How to Counter This
Point out that your circumstances don't refute your argument. 'My personal situation doesn't change the facts I presented. Can you address the evidence?'