His first example doesn't seem like a place where this is a good plan.

The person who takes joy in hurting others will not treat you well for letting him hurt you. They will only try harder to get a reaction.

More to the point, they will try hard on the next person. That person might be worse off than you. Less able to defend themselves.

So, no. Being nice is not the right thing in all cases. The best response to a bully is still to hit them where it hurts.

I think this depends on the type of person. When you're kind to some people even though they're mean, they don't improve. With others I've seen them be nicer to me, but I felt our value were really different so although they wanted to be friends with me, I didn't want to be friends with them.But I may have to work on refining how nice I am and to what sort of people etc.

"A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare."

Proverbs 15:1

"If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat. If they are thirsty, give them water to drink. You will heap burning coals of shame on their heads, and the LORD will reward you."

Proverbs 25:21,22