>> It is apparent to me you have a firm belief in your position regarding consciousness. I disagree with this position while respecting your right to have it.

> It's a textbook ad hominem ...

This has been shown to be false elsewhere in this thread.

> there's no reason to make the statement other than to undermine the credibility of the person's claims.

Nowhere did I assail the credibility, validity, nor intent of the person with whom I disagreed. All I did was identify the disagreement, acknowledge the position communicated is held with conviction (my interpretation), and convey my respect of their right to have a differing opinion.

It is difficult for me to interpret your post as being anything other than a form of projection[0].

0 - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychological_projection

I have a degree in Philosophy. I'm pretty sure I understand what an ad hominem is.

"It is apparent to me you have a firm belief in your position regarding consciousness" Is a statement about the target's level of belief in their position. It does not state that the position is wrong because of the person who made the statement.