What is the term for a propaganda technique that attacks a person instead of addressing the issue?

Prepare for the Keystone Literature Content Exam with detailed flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question is accompanied by helpful hints and explanations to enhance understanding. Get exam-ready today!

The term for a propaganda technique that attacks a person instead of addressing the issue is name-calling. This approach involves disparaging an individual to undermine their arguments or credibility without actually engaging with the content of their claims. It diverts attention away from the topic at hand and focuses instead on framing the opponent in a negative light, often through the use of derogatory language or labels. This tactic is prevalent in various forms of discourse, especially in political contexts, where it serves to evoke emotional responses and rally support by instilling distrust or aversion towards an individual or a group.

The other choices refer to different techniques: testimonial involves using endorsements from authority figures to promote a product or idea, card stacking means presenting only information that supports one side of an argument while ignoring opposing viewpoints, and transfer aims to associate a positive or negative symbol or idea with a person or cause. Each of these techniques employs different strategies for persuasion, but name-calling distinctly emphasizes personal attacks over substantive debate.

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