Which term describes an attack on a person instead of addressing the actual issue?

Enhance your knowledge for the PSSA ELA Grade 7 Test. Use flashcards and answer multiple choice questions with detailed explanations. Get exam-ready now!

The term that describes an attack on a person rather than addressing the actual issue is name-calling propaganda. This technique involves using disparaging or defamatory language to undermine an opponent's character instead of engaging with their arguments or claims. By focusing on negative attributes or labels associated with the individual, it distracts from the actual topic being debated. This kind of approach often aims to evoke an emotional response from the audience, making it harder for them to consider the arguments fairly.

In contrast, repetition propaganda relies on repeatedly presenting a message to reinforce it, emotional appeal propaganda seeks to connect with the audience's feelings rather than rational arguments, and red herring propaganda introduces irrelevant information to divert attention away from the main topic. None of these options specifically involve personal attacks in the same way that name-calling does.

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