[acomar]

> Right, which makes it all the more important to ensure that when racism/sexism claims are made, they are made legitimately and not casually, lest they be used as examples to dismiss, or ignore, genuine issues.

Too frequently this line of argumentation is inflated and used to attack even legitimate claims of sexism/racism -- they can be used inappropriately turns into they are being used inappropriately halfway through the argument, and the entire point slides unchallenged.

> someone using a social smear tactic will make an appeal to the wider issue (e.g. "x is a horrible sexist, and we all know how bad those boys clubs are") to solicit agreement and rapport, thus strengthening their attack.

Exactly. Consider that this is easier and more powerful in the reverse direction from a majority/empowered group to a minority/under-powered group.

[hatcravat]

Do you feel that in this case the charges of sexism are legitimate?