To Fight or Not To Fight, that is the Question?

I can provide theories on self defense as it relates to possible legal issues but I am not an expert. I can tell you that the line between self preservation/protection/defense is fluid and tricky yet I am not an expert. I can only express my particular view at any one moment knowing as that moment leaves like a breeze blowing a leaf along it will change.

Iain Abernathy wrote a post on power and impact with a quote from Funakoshi, Gichin Sensei as follows, "When there are no avenues of escape or one is caught even before any attempt to escape can be made, then for the first time the use of self-defense techniques should be considered. Even at times like these, do not show any intention of attacking, but first let the attacker become careless. At that time attack him concentrating one's whole strength in one blow to a vital point and in the moment of surprise, escape and seek shelter and help.” 

It occurred to me when reading the quote that Funakoshi Sensei seemed to understand the ramifications of self defense vs. fighting. He seems to be saying that for it to remain morally upright a karate-ka must not fight unless not other option is available yet at the end he still stresses escape and seek help.

In avoidance hopefully one will not get hit or fight or have to protect themselves physically. If physical altercation is unavoidable and you must use your ability then, so it seems somewhat, that he advocates proper force to stop the fight so you can immediately run/escape/tactfully retreat to safety and seek help, etc.

Maybe those older karate-ka, in a time long ago, had more sense and sensibility than most martial systems today give them credit for other than lip service in a self serving manner.