A polemic ( /pəˈlɛmɪk/) is when the argument, debate or opinion, leans toward attacking the other person as opposed to the discussion at hand. That is, an argument or rhetoric becomes polemic when they have pejorative implications of the dignity of opposition. This is most common in a heated debate, where frustration or a sense of righteousness promotes hostility. The word is derived from the Greek πολεμικός (polemikos), meaning "warlike, hostile",[1][2] which comes from πόλεμος ('polemos), "war".[3]
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A polemic is a form of dispute, wherein the main efforts of the disputing parties are aimed at establishing the superiority of their own points of view regarding an issue. Along with debate, polemic is one of the more common forms of dispute. Similar to debate, it is constrained by a definite thesis which serves as the subject of controversy. However, unlike debate, which may seek common ground between two parties, a polemic is intended to establish the supremacy of a single point of view by refuting an opposing point of view.
Polemic usually addresses serious matters of religious, philosophical, political, or scientific importance, and is often written to dispute or refute a widely accepted position.
Polemic journalism was common in continental Europe, when libel laws were not as stringent.[4]
To support study of the polemics and controversies of the 17th-19th centuries, a British research project has placed thousands of pamphlets of that era online.[5]
The worst offense that can be committed by a polemic is to stigmatize those who hold a contrary opinion as bad and immoral men.—John Stuart Mill, 1806-73
Polemic theology is the branch of theological argument devoted to the history or conduct of controversy on religious matters.[6] As such, it is distinguished from apologetics, the intellectual defense of faith.
Martin Luther's "On the Bondage of the Will" is an example of polemic theology, written against and in answer to The Freedom of the Will by Desiderius Erasmus.
The following are some people associated with "polemic"[7]: