A polemic is a strong written or spoken attack on a particular idea, belief, or person. It is often argumentative, emotional, and meant to provoke debate or opposition.
From French *polémique*, from Greek *polemikos* “warlike, hostile,” from *polemos* “war.” The word carries the sense of verbal warfare rather than calm discussion.
Calling something a *polemic* is a polite way of saying, “This is more like a battle than a conversation.” It reminds us that in many cultures, arguments about ideas are treated almost like war—just with words as weapons.
Polemic writing and speech have historically been dominated by male voices in public intellectual and religious debates. Women polemicists were often dismissed as 'shrill' or 'hysterical,' reflecting gendered double standards in how strong disagreement is judged.
When labeling a work as 'polemic,' apply the term consistently across genders and avoid dismissing women’s or marginalized people’s arguments as merely emotional or strident.
["strong critique","forceful argument"]
Women polemicists in philosophy, theology, and politics have challenged dominant narratives and expanded public discourse, even when facing harsh gendered criticism.
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