A switching device (1) with a pole element (2) which exhibits a plurality of magnets (10) arranged one next to the other with alternating polarity, a first switching element (4), wherein the pole element (2) is situated next to the first switching element (4) and is movable relative to the first switching element (4), and wherein the first switching element (4) exhibits magnetisable area segments (16). According to the invention the switching device (1) exhibits magnetisable force coupling elements (8), which, in dependence on a relative motion between the pole element (2) and the first switching element (4), are arranged in such a way as to be movable with respect to the switching element.