[quote]an insult doesn't make points less valid.[/quote] It doesn't add anything to the argument either. I use Sargon of Akkad as an example. He correctly argues that he doesn't rely on ad hominem fallacies because he doesn't substitute character attacks for arguments. He only supplements his arguments with petty name-calling. It's still sophistic. Talking down to somebody or insulting them in an argument only serves as emotional manipulation. There's no guarantee that your opponent or audience will disregard insults, so it's better to not taint the discussion.