Is it....

[Megas Methuselah]

It doesn't matter what is "better." The fact remains that, if someone pushes you, your honour and manhood are at stake. So stand up, let 'em drop and be a man.

[Populus Romanus]

I would disagree. Would people view as a "man" if you fought back, and lost?

[rajpoot]

I watched this movie once (Bollywood movie, titled Lage Raho Munna Bhai, it's a comedy) where the hero gives an extension to the Gandhian theory of turning the other cheek when someone slaps you. If he slaps you on one cheek turn the other. Then if he does not understand and slaps you on the other cheek too, then beat him black and blue.
So basically be polite and try to resolve matters peacefully to the best of your abilities. But if the chap in front is hard nut, and does not respond properly, then don't back down.

[Cute Wolf]

well, if it just once, just once, maybe you better swallowing your pride and walk away

but if that was twice, beat him into pulp

[Monk]

It's pretty simple, you just gotta know when to hold 'em and know when to fold 'em. Y'know? Gotta know when to walk away, and when to run.

[A Nerd]

And...hopefully you don't know when to wet your pants!

[Monk]

And...hopefully you don't know when to wet your pants!

Ah, your inexperience is showing. Wetting your pants is a strategic maneuver. While your opponent is rolling around laughing, that's when you strike.