So if physical violence is a part of the human experience, then it cannot be stamped out. So where does it fit in our societies and how do we harness its benefits and reduce its potential for harm?

While this may sound like a paradox, it isn't as odd as you may initially think. Walk with me into the world of combat sports.

I stand to be corrected, but from what I understand, THE most important skill in combat sports is self-discipline. Why? Because without it, there is a huge potential for serious injury and death.
So before students touch weapons like sticks, swords, knives or guns, they must first learn how to manage themselves and how to practice and learn about violence in a safe way. And as they get better and move up the ranks, they get access to more potentially dangerous skills.

What is often missed by people who don't play combat sports is that safety is at the core of the practice. And again, you may be wondering, but they beat each other up! Yes they do. But they have CONSENT to do so. There are rules that govern how it happens, when it happens, where it happens and there are referees and systems that make sure players follow the rules.