As a man, I would never walk through a dark space either.  As 'Farmgirl' noted, the best defence is strong legs - RUN! And as you note, common sense, knowing what a hard punch feels like,  and being able to disable an opponent who attacks from behind are useful. The last line of defence if trouble occurs while walking alone drunk or stoned, or suddenly being dumped by the guy you 'hooked up' with at the Frat party or media/sports star you hoped would boost your career..."Go ask Alice the lawyer. I think she'll know." Personally, I find it strange that cops are so useless at reducing the stubborn rate of 'unfounded' cases. Must be a conspiracy. Or they are all mysogynists. But of course the Fems are not mysrandrists. Banish the thought - it's not acceptable to the SJW "Thought Police". Besides, only a naive, old, stupid male could hold such an ignorant, primitive view. A 25 year-old female's opinion is so much better-informed. And why? Because she's female and - it's 2017!