I've pretty much convinced myself that it's impossible to learn everything (despite me somewhat wanting to).  Perhaps this coincides with me having less enthusiasm to learn things voluntarily... >_>

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Fighting back generally doesn't work if it's like a majority against you.  Being soft to the bullies may work in cliche shows, but I wouldn't bet on it IRL.  Can be made to be successful though - my advice would be to do it when they're not in a group, that is if you happen to be with one of the guys alone.  People are somewhat naturally inclined to help those that help them, and when they're away from their pack mentality, they're more susceptible to it.
Ignoring works, if you don't mind the anti-social aspect of it.