Politics refers to the processes, activities, and methods through which groups of people make decisions, allocate power, and govern themselves. It encompasses the study of governance structures, political behavior, public policies, and the distribution of power and resources in a society. Politics can occur at various levels, including local, national, and international, and it involves actors such as governments, political parties, interest groups, and citizens.
The term also indicates the conflict and cooperation between different political entities and ideologies, as well as the ways in which these dynamics influence societal norms, laws, and institutions. Central to politics is the concept of authority, legitimacy, and the role of institutions in shaping human interaction. Through the mechanisms of political engagement—such as voting, legislation, or social movements—individuals and groups channel their interests and values into decisions that can affect the broader community. Politics is thus integral to the organization of societies and the exercise of power, impacting various aspects of daily life, including economics, education, and social rights.