Mudslinging through the ages

This is a fascinating article that recounts how the mudslinging so apparent in this time's election campaign is actually a time honored tradition in US Presidential elections. I particularly liked Lincoln's comebacks cited at the closing. Apparently, Lincoln had responded to assertions of "Judge Douglas" on several matters, allowing that he was certain Douglas wasn't intending to lie. He also, reportedly, compared Douglas to an "obstinate animal" and added, "I mean no disrespect."

Actually, mudslinging is not so much a US tradition but a general human failing. When you can't win an argument through the force of your logic, resort to undermining your opponents credibility and character. History is replete with examples of tactics that leverage smearing opponents in Britain and France, and in slightly different manifestations in monarchies around the world. And, its not been limited to politics alone. Consider for instance the attacks against Charles Darwin.