Politics refers to the process by which groups of people make collective decisions. It encompasses the activities associated with governance, including the formation of policies, the allocation of resources, and the representation of various interests within a society. Politics involves the exercise of power and authority, the negotiation and conflict resolution among individuals and groups, and the organization of societal structures.
At its core, politics is concerned with who gets what, when, and how, and includes various forms of political engagement, such as voting, campaigning, and advocacy. Political systems can vary widely, ranging from democracies to autocracies, and may include diverse ideologies and practices, such as liberalism, socialism, conservatism, and anarchism.
In a broader sense, politics also encompasses the underlying social dynamics, cultural influences, and economic factors that shape public policies and political behavior. It is a fundamental aspect of human interaction that influences the organization and function of communities, nations, and global relations.