look at the issues, consider the merits of the article,,,

Who said what should bear no importance at all.  What's important is the content, the substance of the article.

If you don't agree, try to refute the article, or any part of it.

if you do agree, why?

That's is the right attitude everyone should take.

If you see claims, or slogans, look beneath them, see if there is any substance.