The link is to a long but interesting essay by Dr Robert G Brown of Duke University who addresses all the issues of this kind of ad hominem problem. It is a response to the use of the term in a supposedly scientific journal. We know the mainstream media rags love such terms, but any journal that wants to be taken seriously in the science world needs to be more careful.
It's here for anyone who is interested.
Why calling people climate change deniers is wrong
Fruit flies - help needed please.
Army horses loose on London streets
Have any of you got all electric cars? Pros and cons please.