Die „deklarierte Gesinnung, einem was Böses zu tun“

Abstract Opening with a quote by Kant on the subject of enmity, this paper discusses some central elements and properties of hostile relations. Hostility is defined as a social relationship between agents (individuals or collectives) intending to inflict the maximum possible damage on the other. Questions of decision, moral polarisation and the dynamic of aggressive sentiment are central to the paper. It concludes with an outline of typical steps and stages in the development of enmity.