Name-calling

Name-calling is a form of ad hominem attack relying on the verb to be to draw a vague and context-free equivalence between a concept and a person. Name calling is an emotional appeal usually based on a hasty generalization - a fallacy of logic.

To avoid discussing the facts, an individual or an organisation will label its opponent(s) with a derogatory term, or give them a title that has been identified with something negative. Very popular among American jingoists whose belief system reflects a desire for control of the country at the expense of others' individual rights - a mockery of the U.S. constitution.

Repeated use of the same name or label, or refusal to apologize for use of a name or label, is called a smear.