"It is not he who gains the exact point in dispute who scores most in controversy - but he who has shown the better temper"

This quote by Samuel Butler speaks to the value of having a good temperament in a debate or argument. It recommends that it is not always the person who has the ability to show their point that is the winner of the argument, but rather the person who is able to preserve a much better temper throughout the discussion. This is since having an excellent temper can help to keep the discussion civil and productive, while a bad mood can lead to an ineffective and hostile exchange. It is important to bear in mind that even if a single person has the ability to prove their point, it is still possible for the other person to win the argument if they have the ability to keep a better mood. This quote encourages us to bear in mind that having a good temper is simply as essential as having a great argument in an argument or conversation.