Thomas Huxley's quote, "It's not who is right, but what is right, that is important," is a powerful statement emphasizing the supremacy of objective truth and ethical principles over personal ego or the desire to be correct in an argument. It shifts the focus from winning a debate to identifying and upholding what is morally sound, factually accurate, or just.

Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

• "It's not who is right...": This part directly addresses the common human tendency to prioritize being the victor in a disagreement. We often get caught up in defending our own positions, sometimes more out of pride or a desire to be seen as knowledgeable than out of a genuine pursuit of truth. This phrase highlights the ego-driven aspect of many arguments.

• "...but what is right...": This is the core of the quote. It redirects our attention to the objective standard of "rightness." This could refer to:

  • Moral or Ethical Rightness: What aligns with principles of justice, fairness, compassion, and the greater good.
  • Factual Rightness: What is supported by evidence, logic, and verifiable truth.
  • Legal Rightness: What is in accordance with established laws and regulations.
  • Practical Rightness: What is the most effective, logical, or beneficial course of action in a given situation.

• "...that is important.": This concluding phrase underscores the paramount significance of identifying and adhering to what is objectively right, regardless of who initially proposed it or whose viewpoint aligns with it. The emphasis is on the outcome – achieving the correct understanding, making the ethical choice, or implementing the just solution – rather than on individual validation or the triumph of one person's opinion.

The underlying message of the quote is a call for:

• Humility: Recognizing that we might be wrong, and being open to the possibility that someone else's perspective might hold more truth or be more ethically sound.
• Objectivity: Striving to evaluate ideas and situations based on evidence and principles, rather than personal biases or emotional attachments.
• Collaboration: Working together to uncover what is right, even if it means acknowledging that our initial stance was incorrect.
• Focus on Principles: Prioritizing ethical and factual considerations over the desire to "win" an argument or have our own views prevail.
• Intellectual Honesty: Being willing to admit when we are wrong and to change our minds in the face of compelling evidence or stronger ethical reasoning.

Why is this important?

• Progress: Focusing on "what is right" leads to better decisions, more just societies, and a greater understanding of the world around us.
• Stronger Relationships: When the goal is truth and ethical behavior rather than personal victory, disagreements can become opportunities for learning and growth, strengthening rather than fracturing relationships.
• Effective Problem Solving: Prioritizing what is right ensures that solutions are based on sound principles and evidence, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes.

In essence, Huxley's quote encourages us to move beyond ego and personal attachment to our own ideas and to focus on the pursuit of truth and ethical principles as the ultimate goal in any discussion or decision-making process. It's a timeless reminder that the validity of an idea rests on its own merits, not on who champions it.