What is the goal of politics? Many assume that the goal of politics is “we win, they lose.” Factions compete with other factions with a “winner-takes-all” mentality. But politics doesn’t have to be like this. The goal of politics is the common good: laws and policies which benefit all citizens and help us to live good and flourishing lives. This means that political opponents should work for the common good of all, not just their own individual success. For example, free speech, religious freedom, and conscience rights benefit everyone across the political spectrum. So does the idea of respectful dialogue. When you engage in political conversations with others, don’t just think in terms of defeating the enemy. Why not think about how to arrive at the common good for all.