text: It all depends on what you're looking to gain from participating in a martial art.  I prefer Aikido because I think it has the best moral philosophy behind it.  The goal in training in Aikido is to be able to diffuse a conflict without bringing harm to yourself or your opponent.  This takes an a great deal of skill and training but it is worth it.  If you want an art that goes beyond the physical aspects of how to defend yourself and actually makes you a better person mentally, Aikido is the way to go.