Originally Posted by
Camilo
To the above I would add: even if you think you're right (or maybe even are objectively right), just quit at some point. Move on. To me, it looks pathetic when people put way too much stake in "winning" a stupid internet argument. A person loses respect by going on and on and on and on. A suggestion for someone who can't stand to not have the final word: "You're wrong, but I'm done.", or nicer: "I think you're wrong, but I'm done." Or nicest: "We'll have to agree to disagree. I'm going for a ride (or tend to whatever life one has other than arguing meaningless issues on the internet)"
For me that approach only works in a debate where I'm not sure if I'm right or wrong. Especially if it appears that the other side are better qualified. But in that position I would be far too embarrassed to argue my dubious position for multiple pages. I follow points 1 & 2 in my original post to avoid that very scenario.
Occasionally, if I'm very busy or not that interested in the subject, I do quit. But rightly or wrongly I tend to hang in there when I know someone is talking complete bs. It has its benefits because it tends to highlight which other posters are worth listening to and often throws up some interesting links.