Politics refers to the activities, actions, and policies used to gain and hold power within a government or other institution. It is the process by which groups of people make collective decisions, often involving the conflict of interests among individuals or factions. Politics encompasses a wide range of activities, including the formulation and implementation of laws, governance, the distribution of resources, and the management of public affairs. It also involves the negotiation and interplay between different stakeholders, such as political parties, interest groups, and the electorate.
In a broader sense, politics can also refer to the social and cultural dynamics that influence power relationships within societies, including issues of identity, class, and ideology. Political theories and ideologies, such as democracy, authoritarianism, socialism, and liberalism, shape the frameworks through which political systems are organized and governed. Ultimately, politics is fundamental to the functioning of societies as it impacts daily life, societal order, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.