strawmen

Definition

Oversimplified or distorted versions of an opponent's position used to make it easier to attack or refute in an argument.

Etymology

Derived from the phrase 'straw man,' which originated in the 16th century to describe a dummy used for practice in sword fighting, later evolving into a metaphor for a weak or flimsy argument easily knocked down.

In the news

The author uses this term to explain how online platforms reduce complex, real human beings into simplistic, easy-to-target caricatures, which fuels hostility rather than understanding.

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