The political is defined by the distinction between friend and enemy from "summary" of The Concept of the Political by Carl Schmitt
The essence of the political lies in the distinction between friend and enemy. This distinction is not based on personal relationships or individual preferences but is rooted in a deeper sense of group identity and belonging. The friend is defined as someone who shares our values, goals, and interests, who stands with us in times of conflict and crisis. The enemy, on the other hand, is the other, the outsider, the one who threatens our way of life and must be resisted. This distinction is not arbitrary or subjective but is essential for the functioning of the political order. It is through the identification of friend and enemy that political communities are formed and maintained. In times of peace, the friend may be seen as an ally, a partner in the pursuit of common goals. But in times of conflict, the friend becomes the one we must defend and protect at all costs, even if it means sacrificing our own interests. The enemy, on the other hand, is the one we must oppose and resist, the one who poses a threat to our security and stability. The enemy is not simply a competitor or rival but is seen as fundamentally different and incompatible with our way of life. This distinction between friend and enemy is not limited to individuals but extends to groups, nations, and even ideologies. In this sense, the political is not just about the pursuit of power or the resolution of conflicts but is about the very essence of human existence. It is through the recognition of friend and enemy that we define who we are, what we stand for, and what we are willing to fight for. The distinction between friend and enemy is not fixed or permanent but is constantly evolving and shifting in response to changing circumstances and challenges.- The concept of the political is about understanding the dynamics of conflict and cooperation, of competition and collaboration, of identity and difference. It is through the recognition of friend and enemy that we navigate the complexities of the political world and make sense of our place within it.
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