The state has the authority to decide on matters of life and death from "summary" of The Concept of the Political by Carl Schmitt
The concept of the state having the authority to decide on matters of life and death is a fundamental aspect of political theory. It is rooted in the understanding that the state is the ultimate sovereign power within a society, with the ability to make critical decisions that impact the lives of its citizens. This authority is derived from the state's role as the primary guarantor of order and security, responsible for maintaining the stability and well-being of the community. In deciding on matters of life and death, the state is often called upon to make difficult and morally complex choices. These decisions can range from issues of national security and military intervention to questions of criminal justice and the administration of punishment. In each case, the state is tasked with weighing the competing interests of individuals and the collective good, balancing the rights of the individual against the needs of the community. The state's authority to decide on matters of life and death is closely tied to its monopoly on the legitimate use of force. This monopoly allows the state to enforce its decisions and maintain order within society, using coercion and violence when necessary. By holding this power, the state is able to exercise control over the lives of its citizens, regulating their behavior and imposing consequences for violations of the law. At the same time, the state's authority to decide on matters of life and death is not absolute. It is subject to legal and ethical constraints, rooted in principles of justice and human rights. The state is expected to exercise its power responsibly, respecting the dignity and rights of individuals even as it pursues the common good. In making decisions that impact the lives of its citizens, the state is held accountable to a higher standard of morality and legality, ensuring that its actions are justified and legitimate. In this way, the concept of the state's authority to decide on matters of life and death reflects the complex and challenging nature of political power. It highlights the tension between individual rights and collective needs, between justice and security, and between morality and expediency. By exploring this concept, we can gain a deeper understanding of the role of the state in society and the ethical dilemmas it faces in governing the lives of its citizens.
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