I too have two conflicting reactions on this subject - the heart say 'Hell Yeah, you have to defend yourself as best you can', but the head says, that is not the way to a system of civilization and justice. It's a tough call - if there is no system in place to handle their defense in other ways, or avenue for them to somehow seek legal justice, then I guess it is acceptable, but they should also do what they can to effect changes legally to combat the problem. It speaks to the concept of law in society, which should apply equally on local, regional, national and international levels.