What is higher than survival on your priority list? Outside of the survival of my wife, and if I had kids their survival, I find it difficult to imagine ranking something higher. Maybe I'm just selfish.
I think there's a middle ground here. There's a lot of judgement and context involved. I mean, sure, we can see danger around every corner. But I think most people will accept some degree of personal risk in order to help someone else. I've been physically assaulted by an unreasonable woman before, and I didn't punch her. I restrained her so that she didn't hurt me or anyone else, including herself. I suppose I could legally have punched her in the face, but that is, frankly, a repugnant thought for me. And to be sure, she may have stabbed me or something. Fortunately for us both, that didn't happen.
So, we can say that there is a third possibility. If you over respond, you might not be dead or in jail, but by your actions, the other person might be seriously injured, dead, or possibly in jail (because you failed to deescalate the situation).
As a result of what I believe is a very reasonable, common perspective on this topic, I get to go through life not carrying guns or visualizing punching women in the face. Still pretty safe, not doing crazy things that are likely to put me or my family at risk. But also, I believe, a little healthier and happier.