Essential to politics: friend/enemy from "summary" of The Concept of the Political by Carl Schmitt

Politics is based on the notion of friend and enemy – two mutually exclusive terms that can define whether an individual or group belongs to one’s own ‘side’ or not.

The ability to identify who is your friend, and who is your enemy, in politics is essential for survival.

Identifying friends and enemies are important aspects of political life; it helps us know whom we should protect and cooperate with, as well as who poses a threat to our interests.

Being able to discern between friends and foes in politics allows you to create strategies to promote your own interests effectively.

Friend and enemy distinctions go beyond simple alliances and rivalries between states and large groups, and involve even the smallest details in social interactions.

Recognizing potential rivals, supporters, allies, and adversaries will provide essential information for planning future actions.

Political leaders must be able to assess quickly which individuals and groups are likely to support their interests but also may oppose them.

In conclusion, having the capacity to distinguish between friends and enemies in politics is a crucial tool for survival.

In politics, having a good understanding of these dynamics is key to success and maintaining power.

Knowing who your friends are gives you a sense of security and comfort while also knowing who might stand against you can give potential insight into upcoming challenges.