ARGUMENT

Avoid argument with a person if he is directly opposite to you; if he has a mind of his own he can not be convinced; and if he has no mind he is a poor convert; it is not only a loss of time, but often of friendship.

With fools argument is passion and vociferation; with politicians it is a majority; with kings it is the sword; with men of sense it is a sound reason.

In reasoning, the best way to gain the cause, and bring the controversy to a speedy determination, is by asking questions, and proceeding still upon the adversary’s concessions.

A concluding face put upon an unconcluding argument, is the most contemptible sort of folly.

Jefferson never engaged in dispute; lie expressed himself freely to those who sought his society for information or an intelligent comparison of opinion; but his lips were closed in the presence of a disputant. The patience with which he listened to others, and the modest candor with which he expressed himself, usually disarmed the contentious; when they did not, he went no farther. If his views were false, lie did not wish them to prevail; if they were true, lie felt certain that sooner or later they would prevail. He left no one in doubt as to his opinions.