The difficult part in an argument is not to defend one's opinion but rather to know it.

The difficult part in an argument is not to defend one's opinion but rather to know it.

Much might be said on both sides.

Much might be said on both sides.

When Bishop Berkeley said "there was no matter."
And proved it--'t was no matter what he said.

When Bishop Berkeley said "there was no matter."
And proved it--'t was no matter what he said.

The best argument is that which seems merely an explanation.

The best argument is that which seems merely an explanation.

Reproachful speech from either side
The want of argument supplied;
They rail, reviled; as often ends
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Reproachful speech from either side
The want of argument supplied;
They rail, reviled; as often ends
The contests of disputing friends.

I have found you an argument; but I am not obliged to find you an
understanding.

I have found you an argument; but I am not obliged to find you an
understanding.

Nay, if he take you in hand, sir, with an argument,
He'll bray you in a mortar.

Nay, if he take you in hand, sir, with an argument,
He'll bray you in a mortar.

Where we desire to be informed 'tis good to contest with men
above ourselves; but to confirm and establish read more

Where we desire to be informed 'tis good to contest with men
above ourselves; but to confirm and establish our opinions, 'tis
best to argue with judgments below our own, that the frequent
spoils and victories over their reasons may settle in ourselves
an esteem and confirmed opinion of our own.

'Twas blow for blow, disputing inch by inch,
For one would not retreat, nor t'other flinch.

'Twas blow for blow, disputing inch by inch,
For one would not retreat, nor t'other flinch.