Which appeal is often used in political arguments to discredit an opponent based on humor or mockery?

The appeal to ridicule is a technique used in political arguments to discredit opponents by employing humor or mockery. This method focuses on making the opponent's position appear foolish or laughable, thus undermining their credibility without addressing the substance of their arguments. By ridiculing an opposing viewpoint, the speaker can divert attention from valid points and instead provoke an emotional reaction or laughter from the audience, making the opposing argument seem less serious or worthy of consideration.

In the context of political discourse, this tactic can diminish the perceived legitimacy of an opponent's stance and sway public opinion against them, often appealing to the audience's emotions rather than their logic. The effectiveness of this approach lies in its ability to create a social atmosphere where the mocked viewpoint becomes associated with negativity and derision, influencing audience perceptions and reactions effectively.