One rapidly learns that, if certain people get locked in a conversation it will almost inevitably go the same old way, that some people are prone to type in better English than some others, that certain people are so fixed in their views that noting you can do or say will make them think one iota differently while others are prepared to have a good debate and are open to persuasion, that some people are on the same wavelength as you while others aren't... - but I suspect that was not really what you were asking about.  :-)

I think the answer to your question is that it depends how open your mind is. If it is open you can learn why other peeps think the way they do - possibly see a logic in their way of thinking (albeit you might think the logic is flawed or that the basic premise behind the logic is), and therefore have a better understanding of the opposing POV.
By arguing your case you might also learn to understand more fully your own POV as well!