Political Commentator Links "Friend/Enemy Politics" to Tribalism, Citing Somalia and Aristotelian Tradition

A recent social media post by commentator "Wokal Distance" has ignited discussion by critically labeling certain political dynamics as "3rd world tribalism" and "friend/enemy politics," explicitly referencing Somalia as an example. The commentator contrasted this with the "Aristotelian political tradition of western civilization," suggesting a fundamental divergence in political philosophy.

The term "friend/enemy politics" is primarily associated with the controversial German jurist Carl Schmitt, who defined the essence of the political as the distinction between a collective's "friends" and its "enemies." For Schmitt, an enemy is not necessarily morally evil but represents an existential threat to a group's way of life or sovereignty. This framework posits that political identity is forged through opposition, a concept that critics argue can rationalize tribalism and undermine pluralistic democratic norms.

Somalia's political landscape has historically been shaped by a complex interplay of clan and tribal affiliations. Following the collapse of its central government in 1991, the country descended into prolonged civil conflict, often characterized by inter-clan warfare and the fragmentation of state authority. While efforts have been made to establish stable governance, clan-based loyalties continue to influence political alliances, resource distribution, and security dynamics, contributing to persistent challenges in state-building and national cohesion.

In contrast, the Aristotelian political tradition, foundational to much of Western political thought, emphasizes the pursuit of the "good life" within a well-ordered polis (city-state). Aristotle's philosophy promotes civic virtue, justice, and the rule of law, where citizens engage in deliberation and shared governance for the common good. This tradition typically prioritizes rational discourse and the establishment of institutions that mediate conflict and foster cooperation, rather than defining political life through inherent antagonism.

Wokal Distance, known for commentary on postmodernism and critical theory, frequently critiques what is perceived as a departure from classical Western philosophical principles. The tweet suggests a concern that contemporary political trends may be eroding the foundations of a deliberative, rule-based society in favor of identity-driven conflicts, echoing historical patterns observed in regions struggling with state fragility and deep societal divisions. The juxtaposition highlights a philosophical debate about the fundamental nature of political community and conflict.