Tit for tat?

The age old question again. If someone tats you, is it okay to tit back? Should you stoop to conquer? Or should you just stand straight, taking it all like a fool, hoping to shame the tatter into better behaviour? It doesnt work, this nobility. Except of course, in Hindi movies involving the Mahatma. I'm not arguing against his ways, all i'm saying is that they are not very effective when its one individual against the other. But the question still remains. Does the fact that you are reacting excuse the level you have sunk to? Or do the same standards that apply to your actions apply to your reactions?

I dont like questions i have to find my own answers to.