Analect 05

If you’re not getting your way by staying, you might as well not get your way by leaving.

Commentary:

Some people believe that abruptly getting up and leaving in the middle of a losing argument is an effective way of making their point. Their departure is often accompanied by curses and oaths. What they want to convey is contempt for the proceedings, but the only thing actually conveyed is themselves out of the room, which is a great benefit and relief to everyone left behind.

If you want to make a point by leaving, just cut to the chase and don’t show up at all. It’s a much more efficient way to lose a debate.