One of the major themes of Chesterton's writings was the elevation of minor morals (usually matters of taste and hygiene) above the major morals. It was a greater "sin" to have bad taste than bad ethics.
The proliferation of smoking bans in private establishments around the country is just such an example of this pernicious trend. That brilliant sage Professor Bainbridge has a well-written article describing the ins and outs of these bans from an economic and political perspective.
It is amazing that we live in a society where men cannot share a smoke together in fellowship, except in their own private homes.