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Schmitt, Carl

Carl Schmitt was a German jurist, political theorist, and prominent figure in 20th-century political thought. His ideas have had a significant impact on political theory, particularly in the areas of sovereignty, the state, and the nature of political conflict. Schmitt's work is characterized by its critique of liberalism and its exploration of the role of power and authority in politics.

Here are some key aspects of Carl Schmitt's contributions to political theory:

  1. Concept of Sovereignty: Schmitt is perhaps best known for his concept of sovereignty. He argued that the essence of politics lies in the distinction between friend and enemy, with the sovereign authority being the entity that decides who constitutes the enemy. According to Schmitt, sovereignty involves the ability to make this decisive decision and to maintain order and security within the political community.

  2. Critique of Liberalism: Schmitt was a critic of liberalism and its emphasis on individual rights, constitutionalism, and the rule of law. He argued that liberalism's attempt to depoliticize society and create a neutral, rational order ultimately leads to the erosion of political authority and the inability to confront existential threats. Schmitt saw liberalism as incapable of dealing with the fundamental conflicts and divisions inherent in human society.

  3. State of Exception: Building on his concept of sovereignty, Schmitt introduced the idea of the "state of exception" or "state of emergency." In times of crisis, Schmitt argued, the sovereign authority may suspend the normal legal order and exercise extraordinary powers to preserve the state and protect its citizens. While Schmitt acknowledged the potential for abuse of power in the state of exception, he also saw it as a necessary aspect of sovereign authority.

  4. Political Theology: Schmitt's work often explores the intersections between politics and theology. He famously argued that all significant concepts of the modern state are secularized theological concepts. For example, he saw the idea of sovereignty as analogous to the theological concept of God's omnipotence. This emphasis on the theological origins of political concepts highlights the deeply existential and normative dimensions of politics.

  5. Influence on Contemporary Political Thought: Despite his controversial legacy due to his association with the Nazi regime in Germany, Schmitt's ideas continue to be influential in contemporary political thought. His critiques of liberalism, emphasis on the role of power and authority in politics, and exploration of the nature of political conflict have informed debates about the nature of sovereignty, democracy, and the state in the modern world.

Overall, Carl Schmitt's contributions to political theory have sparked considerable debate and controversy, but his ideas remain central to discussions about the nature of politics and the exercise of power in society.


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