Bulverism

by Brandon Edwards

In an era of constant debate, arguments, and discussions, I have noticed a fascinating trend that has become embedded in these moments - namely, Bulverism.

Now, you may have never heard of the term, and that is absolutely fine; however, I guarantee that you have likely experienced it firsthand. It's a sneaky logical fallacy coined by C.S. Lewis back in the 1940s, and once you spot it, you'll see it everywhere—in debates, social media arguments, even politics.

Here's the gist: Bulverism happens when someone dismisses your argument not by proving it's wrong, but by assuming it's wrong from the start and then "explaining" why you believe it. Like, "Oh, you only say that because you're a (insert label: rich/poor, liberal/conservative, biased, etc.)." They skip the actual evidence and go straight to psychoanalyzing your motives.

For example, imagine debating climate change. Instead of countering your facts, someone says, "You deny it because you're funded by oil companies." Boom—Bulverism. Or in everyday life: "You support that policy just because you're (privileged, white, black, etc.)." No actual refutation, just an attack on "why" you think it.

Why is this important to know? In our hyper-polarized world, Bulverism poisons honest discussion. It shuts down dialogue, turns debates into personal attacks, and lets weak ideas win by dodging the facts. Spotting it helps you demand better: "Okay, but address my point first—then question my motives if you must." It's a shield for critical thinking, forcing arguments to focus on substance rather than smears. By doing this, we are all ultimately helped.