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But John said that the reasoning is far more important than the conclusion. "Important to what" comes to mind but in any case, I'm still of the mindset that both are required and equally important.
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Good/sound reasoning can exist independent of a conclusion. A good/sound conclusion cannot exist independnet of good/sound reasoning. A sound conclusion can only be derived after the hard work of reasoning is completed.

A conclusion is nothing more than a by-product of reasoning. And for this reason - they are not equally important. You ask "important to what?" I respond with "important for understanding". If I have your conclusion, while I will know your position, I will not necessarily understand your position. Moreover, I will not be able to apply the rationale - a very important thing indeed. Herein lies the difference between knowing and understanding.

If somebody spoke to you - only giving you conclusions, wouldn't you want to know the reasoning used to reach those conclusions. Otherwise, you are forced to accept or reject everything at face value.

Comprende?