Thank you, Mike!
My experience/understanding with ego is that there's no such thing — there are just tendencies, habits, karma, etc. that arise in response to each moment. So, what are we trying to protect in an argument? Well, that's a good question isn't it? There's nothing to protect but a particular view, idea, story, opinion that we have attached to and merged into our sense of identity. When we can see our views more clearer as not us, we have much less reason to be so protective and defensive.
Love your comment!
Hugs,
Joe