Politics refers to the activities, actions, and policies involved in governing a state, nation, or community, as well as the study of such processes. Originating from the Greek word "polis," which means "city," politics historically focused on the governance of city-states but has since expanded to encompass a variety of scales, from local municipalities to international organizations. The field includes the activities of government bodies, political parties, lobbyists, advocacy groups, and individual citizens, all aimed at influencing public policy, social norms, and resource allocation. Politics can be formal, involving official institutions like legislatures, executives, and judiciaries, or informal, manifesting in social movements, community organizing, or public opinion. The subject is often divided into subfields such as comparative politics, international relations, and political theory. While often closely related to the exercise of power, politics also involves negotiation, debate, and the forging of alliances. It is a dynamic field, shaped by and shaping history, culture, economics, and social structures. Given its complexity and potential for both conflict and cooperation, politics is subject to ethical considerations, including questions of justice, equality, and human rights.