Colman Noctor: Will Smith incident raises the question of whether violence is ever acceptable

There are very few scenarios where physical violence is a viable option, with the exception being self-defence

Chris Rock (left) reacts after being hit on stage by Will Smith at the Oscars on Sunday night. Picture: AP Photo/Chris Pizzello

Is there ever a circumstance where violence is acceptable? This is a debate that has dominated many discussions today since the incident between Will Smith and Chris Rock at the Oscars ceremony last night.

The incident involved Rock making a joke about Smith’s wife's (Jada Pinkett Smith) alopecia. Rock referenced her suitability for the sequel to GI-Jane where the lead character has a bald head. Smith took exception to this remark and approached the stage and smacked Rock. Upon returning to his seat he exclaimed ‘Take my wife’s name out of your f***ing mouth’.