Final answer:
When an argument becomes unproductive or is dominated by emotion rather than evidence, it may be wise to walk away. Recognizing when discussions are futile and seeking compromise can be more beneficial than persisting in unconstructive debate.
Step-by-step explanation:
When choosing between continuing an argument and walking away, walking away is often the better option if the argument is unproductive, escalating to personal attacks, or if there is a lack of mutual respect and understanding. It is productive to analyze which position has the best evidence and reasoning. If you find that an argument is based on sloppy associative reasoning or is heavily influenced by emotion rather than fact, it may be wise to step back. Additionally, if addressing counterclaims becomes unfruitful, especially when discussions turn into a lengthy list without deep analysis, it could signal that the argument is not constructive. It's important to recognize when the effort to convince the other party is marginal in the grand scheme of achieving mutual understanding or a practical solution. In such cases, as indicated by the idea that 'it is better to get half a loaf of bread than no loaf at all,' seeking a compromise or choosing to walk away to avoid further conflict might be more beneficial.