Abuse Quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero
“When you have no basis for an argument, abuse the plaintiff.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Letters to Atticus, 45 BC
Attacking the opponent’s character when lacking factual support is a fallacious tactic.
In simple terms: Use personal attacks when you lack evidence.
Key Takeaway
Avoid ad hominem attacks.
Themes
rhetoric
ethics
debate
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- courtroom
- political debates
- online arguments
- personal disputes
Key Concepts
Logical fallacy
ad hominem
Questions to Reflect On
- Is the argument stronger when focusing on facts?
- How can you respond to personal attacks?
A Different Perspective
Such attacks damage credibility and hinder constructive dialogue.
![“Things sacred should not only be touched with the hands, but unviolated in thought. [Lat., Res sacros non modo manibus attingi, sed ne cogitatione quidem violari fas fuit.]” quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/deb/marcus-tullius-cicero-157_hands_things-sacred-should-not-only-be-touched_11960.jpg)
