Politics is the study of political systems or government in societies, such as those in the United States or elsewhere. Politics is the collective arrangement of actions which are performed by people within a society to take control of the society through political decision-making processes. In most societies, politics is the interaction of government and society, with politics looking into the societal structure as a whole, examining how politics affects various aspects of life, and how politics is enacted or carried out. Within this broader field of study, politics includes a wide variety of approaches and viewpoints. One of these views, known as realism, examines political systems from an impartial point of view, looking at how similar systems have developed throughout history. Some political scientists also subscribe to what is known as objectivity, which sees politics as an independent field with little regard for the public’s or other individuals’ interest.
Some political philosophers and social scientists argue that politics is not simply a human activity, but rather an evolved system of understanding and values which are present in all human societies. Politics is viewed by some as an attempt to understand the workings of society, examining the relationships between individuals and organizing groups, and political institutions. The study of politics can also be seen as an attempt to understand socio-cultural organizations, political systems, and the history of politics.
Politics has been analyzed throughout history, with scholars examining political systems of ancient societies, ancient Athens and Rome to more modern societies around the world. It is important to examine the history of politics as it has been shaped and re-shaped throughout time. Politics is the study of the institutions which support and maintain political parties and governing structures, such as parliament, parliaments, cabinets, presidents, and other major political leaders. It also covers aspects of how these parties influence the societies they exist in and how these institutions change over time. Politics can also be understood as a set of ideas, values, and institutions that are shaped by various people through different historical periods and which continue to influence politics today.